The Six-Week Checkup After Birth

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Six-Week Checkup
You and baby will be released from the hospital between 24 and 48 hours after an uncomplicated vaginal delivery.

After a c section, mom and baby who have not experienced complications can often go home after a hospital stay of 48 to 72 hours. C section moms will have the staples removed before leaving the hospital and receive an incision check two weeks after the baby's birth.

All moms will be expected to visit the obstetrician six weeks after delivery. Bring baby, doctors like to see how much baby's grown since the big day. They also love pictures of baby for the waiting room, for scrap books and for the walls of their private offices. It's always a thrill, even for doctors who have been making deliveries for years.

Vaginal delivery brings with it a few days to a few weeks of vaginal bleeding and discomfort. You will be given instructions on how to deal with that bleeding and what signs of trouble to watch out for.

You will be given precise instructions on how to care for any incisions or tears, as well as any prescriptions you may need (stay on prenatal vitamins if you choose to nurse), and given guidelines for physical activities. One major concern for many women is when to expect the return of their menstrual cycles. This varies from woman to woman, but generally can be expected six to eight weeks after delivery for many moms, longer for some nursing moms. You should not engage in sexual activity until you have been cleared to do so at your six week check up.

Congratulations, you have performed a miracle. You have created a new life for the world. You nourished and nurtured it inside you, and brought it into this world. You have been blessed and your little blessing was worth all you went through and more.