Your six-week postpartum visit is more than just a routine checkup — it’s a vital opportunity to talk about how your body and mind are healing after birth. This visit isn’t just about getting “cleared” for exercise or intimacy; it’s about you; your symptoms, your questions, and your long-term wellness.
In the haze of new motherhood, it’s easy to forget what to ask or bring. That’s why we’ve put together this comprehensive checklist to help you get the most out of your appointment. Whether you had a vaginal delivery or a C-section, whether you feel great or unsure, this guide is here to help you feel heard, prepared, and supported.
What to Bring to Your Postpartum Visit
1. A written list of questions or concerns
You may be overwhelmed or sleep-deprived, and it’s easy to forget what you wanted to ask. Write down even the “small stuff” , it all matters.
2. Labor and delivery summary or timeline
Note any significant events: prolonged labor, C-section, tearing, vacuum or forceps delivery, hemorrhage, retained placenta, episiotomy, or NICU stay. These details may impact your recovery plan.
3. List of medications and supplements
Include everything: prescriptions, stool softeners, pain meds, herbal supplements, vitamins, or anything else you’re taking postpartum.
4. Symptom log
Track anything that feels off or unresolved:
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Vaginal or incision pain
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Heavy bleeding
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Pelvic pressure or heaviness
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Leaking urine or stool
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Constipation
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Pain when sitting or walking
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Pain during sex
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Tailbone discomfort
5. Mental health notes
Postpartum mental health changes are common. Bring notes or observations about how you’ve been feeling emotionally, including:
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Anxiety
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Depression or tearfulness
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Mood swings
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Irritability or rage
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Trouble bonding with the baby
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Feeling “not yourself”
6. Breastfeeding concerns
Include:
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Pain with latching
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Cracked nipples
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Engorgement or clogged ducts
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Low milk supply
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Mastitis or fever
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Oversupply or leaking
7. Insurance card and ID
If referrals are needed for physical therapy, mental health, or lactation support, bring necessary documentation to help streamline the process.
Questions to Ask Your OBGYN
This is your opportunity to have a thorough conversation about your physical and emotional recovery. Use these questions as a guide and feel free to add your own.
Physical Healing
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Is my perineum, vaginal tissue, or incision healing normally?
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I’m still bleeding or having discharge, is that expected at this point?
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I feel pressure or heaviness in my pelvis. Could this be a prolapse?
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When can I resume exercise, and what type should I start with?
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When is it safe to resume intercourse, and how should I ease back in?
Mental Health
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I’ve been feeling emotional, anxious, or disconnected. Could this be postpartum depression or anxiety?
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Are my mood swings or crying spells normal, or should I talk to someone?
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What mental health resources or providers do you recommend?
Pelvic Floor and Core Recovery
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I’m leaking urine or gas, is this common? Should I do Kegels or something else?
- It feels like there’s a bubble in my vagina, what could that be?
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I have pain during sex. Could this be related to my pelvic floor or hormone changes?
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My core feels weak or my belly still looks pregnant, could I have diastasis recti?
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Can you refer me to a pelvic floor physical therapist?
Breastfeeding and Lactation
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Is nipple or breast pain normal this far out?
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I think I have a clogged duct or mastitis, what should I do?
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I’m worried about my supply. What can help improve it?
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Should I see a lactation consultant?
Bonus Tip: Ask About Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy
Even if you’re not experiencing pain, pelvic floor therapy can be a game-changer after childbirth. Your pelvic floor, abdominal wall, posture, and breathing all shift dramatically during pregnancy and delivery and those changes can have lasting effects.
Pelvic floor physical therapy can help with:
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Diastasis recti
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Core strength and posture
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Urinary or fecal incontinence
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Constipation
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Tailbone pain
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Pain with sex
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Heaviness or pressure in the pelvis
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C-section scar tissue mobility
Even one or two sessions with a qualified provider can help you reconnect with your body and feel more confident in your recovery. Unfortunately, in America pelvic floor therapy is not provided immediately after giving birth like in other countries, so advocate for yourself! Some doctors don’t know the scope of what pelvic floor therapy can help with.
Final Thoughts
Your postpartum OBGYN visit is not just about getting the green light to return to normal. It’s a chance to slow down, check in, and make sure that your healing is progressing in a healthy and supported way. You deserve to feel cared for physically, emotionally, and mentally.
Bring this checklist with you to your appointment, and don’t hesitate to ask for clarification, referrals, or extra time. You are not being dramatic. You are being responsible for your health.
You’ve just brought life into the world and your recovery matters just as much as your birth story.
Looking to optimize your well being with pelvic floor physical therapy? Reach out to us at Pelvic Health Center in Madison, NJ to set up an evaluation and treatment! Feel free to call us at 908-443-9880 or email us at [email protected].