Postpartum Care
"I gave birth to my daughter last month. Even though I feel great, I still visit with my doctor regularly. I make sure to go to follow-up appointments, starting a few weeks after I gave birth. I knows it takes a healthy mom to care for a healthy baby." — Martha
Schedule an appointment with your OB/GYN within 1 to 12 weeks after you give birth
- Your doctor will make sure you’re healing well. Your doctor will check to be sure all of those aches and pains you might still have are a normal part of the healing process.
- Your doctor can check you for postpartum depression. Many new moms have “baby blues.” You may feel a little sad or teary at times during the first two weeks after giving birth. This is normal. Postpartum depression is more serious. If you have postpartum depression, your doctor can help.
- Your doctor can answer your questions. If you have any questions or worries about your health, your doctor can help. Your doctor can reassure any of your concerns.
- Your doctor can help you with family planning. Your doctor will tell you about all of the family planning options available and help you select what’s best for you. Keep in mind that you can get pregnant as early as three weeks after birth. So, it is important to plan ahead if you do not want to get pregnant right away.
Other resources
- Bright Start postpartum brochure (PDF) — A guide to taking care of yourself after pregnancy.
- Find a provider — Find a provider who can help you be a healthy and happy mom.
- Postpartum doctor appointment and enrolling your baby — Find out how to enroll your baby and schedule their first doctor (pediatrician) appointment.
- Everyday healthy habits — Here's what you can do to help keep healthy after you give birth.
- Questions for your doctor — It's hard to know what to ask. Find out what you need to know.
- Women's health services — See our full list of women's health services and programs, including programs for new moms.
