Postnatal Care

Understanding the condition or procedure.

Postnatal care considers recovery and wellbeing after birth. Physical health, emotional wellbeing and feeding questions can all be part of the conversation.

Postnatal care considers physical recovery, emotional wellbeing, feeding-related concerns, contraception and follow-up after birth. Needs can differ after vaginal or caesarean birth and with pregnancy complications. A planned review is helpful, but new severe symptoms or concerns about mental health may need earlier assessment.

Reasons for a consultation.

Symptoms can have different causes. These are reasons to seek an assessment, not a way to make a diagnosis online.

• Recovery concerns
• Feeding or wellbeing questions
• Contraception after birth

When to seek medical advice.

Feeling very unwell, heavy bleeding or other severe symptoms after birth warrants urgent assessment. Routine request forms are not emergency channels.

Evaluation and management.

Review symptoms, the birth experience and any ongoing conditions. Discuss appropriate follow-up and support with the relevant healthcare team. Questions about the purpose of a recommendation, reasonable alternatives and follow-up should be addressed before proceeding.

Benefits, risks and limitations.

Recovery differs between individuals and types of birth. Avoid fixed timelines or guarantees and explain when additional assessment may be needed.

Frequently asked questions.

Related reading.

Contraception Choices: An Overview of Available Methods

Related services.

• Pregnancy and Antenatal Care
• High-Risk Pregnancy
• Caesarean Section