Back to homepage

Postpartum Care

Postpartum is the first six to eight weeks after giving birth. During this time, your body is going through a lot of changes and recovering from childbirth. You may experience a variety of both physical and emotional symptoms during postpartum and some symptoms may last beyond the eight-week postpartum period.  

Physical postpartum symptoms

  • Vaginal bleeding (lochia): Heavy bleeding that gradually decreases over several weeks.
  • Uterine cramping: As the uterus contracts back to its pre-pregnancy size.
  • Engorged breasts: Swollen and painful breasts as they fill with milk.
  • Fatigue: Extreme tiredness due to the physical demands of childbirth and caring for a newborn.
  • Hormonal changes: Hot flashes, night sweats and headaches due to shifting hormone levels.

Emotional postpartum symptoms

  • Mood swings: Rapid changes in mood.
  • Anxiety: Excessive worry about the baby's health and well-being.
  • Difficulty bonding with the baby: Feeling disconnected from the newborn

Postpartum depression, depression in the first 12 months after birth, might also be something you experience. There is not one definitive cause for postpartum depression, but some women may be more likely to experience this condition if they have a previous history of depression or postpartum depression or have a family history of depression. Some symptoms of postpartum depression include:

  • Feeling sad, hopeless or overwhelmed.
  • Fatigue.
  • Tearfulness.  
  • Irritability.
  • Withdrawing from family and friends

At your postpartum appointment, your doctor will screen you for postpartum depression and talk to you about treatment options.

Learn more about postpartum depression

Your postpartum appointments

After you deliver your baby, your doctor will schedule postpartum follow up appointments with you. These appointments may be anytime between two days to six weeks after delivery, depending on your health and any potential complications. Your postpartum appointment is a great time to ask any questions you may have about the healing process and bring up any concerns.

Are there any complications that can happen during postpartum?

Giving birth can take a toll on your body and although some symptoms and conditions are normal after delivery, others can be a more serious issue. Your health care team will likely monitor you for the following serious conditions the hours and days following delivery:

After you leave the hospital, you should contact your healthcare provider if you experience any of the following symptoms as they may be a sign of a more serious problem:

  • Heavy bleeding (soaking through a pad in an hour or less).
  • Severe abdominal or pelvic pain.
  • Fever over 100.4°F (38°C) or chills.
  • Foul-smelling vaginal discharge.
  • Swelling, redness or pain in your legs (especially one-sided).
  • Chest pain or difficulty breathing.
  • Severe headaches or changes in vision.

Tips for healing after delivering your baby

It's important to prioritize rest and recovery after having your baby to allow your body to properly heal. Other ways to care for yourself during postpartum include:

  • Stay hydrated and eat nourishing foods.
  • Follow your provider’s instructions for caring for stitches, C-section incisions or sore areas.
  • Use recommended pain relief methods, such as ice packs, warm baths or prescribed medications.
  • Don’t hesitate to lean on your support system for meals, chores or emotional support.
  • Gentle walks can help circulation and mood but avoid strenuous activity until cleared by your provider.

Most importantly, attend your postpartum appointments. Your health care provider is there to answer questions and ensure you and your new baby are thriving!