After Delivery

You can get help from support services, and learn about how to take care of yourself and your baby after birth.

Mother kissing baby

Congratulations on your new baby! Becoming a mother is one of the most wonderful things you can experience, but it can also be overwhelming. As you care for your newborn and as your body is healing it is important that you are taking care of yourself and leaning on friends, family, and your doctor for help.

Mother and baby

Postpartum Phases

  • Acute Postpartum Period (6-12 hours) The acute or initial phase of the postpartum period involves the first 6 to 12 hours after childbirth. During this phase, the mother is monitored to ensure no complications arise.
  • Subacute Postpartum Period (2-6 weeks) The subacute postpartum period last 2 to 6 weeks after delivery. During this phase, the mother’s body goes through several changes in genitourinary recovery, emotional status, hemodynamics and metabolism.
  • Delayed Postpartum Period (6 weeks-6 months) The delayed postpartum period last from 6 weeks to 6 months after delivery. During this phase, the mother’s body will go through changes to restore the muscles and connective tissues and the body returns to the pre-pregnant state.

Your Health After Delivery

Doctor Appointments

After giving birth you should have follow up appointments with your doctor to discuss how you are healing and feeling physically and mentally.

Avoid Sickness

Make sure you and any friends or family are up to date on vaccines if they will be spending time around you and your newborn baby.

Postpartum Depression

After giving birth you may experience mood swings called ” post-partum depression.” If you feel depressed or are having trouble connecting with your newborn, reach out to a mental health professional for help.

Baby's Health

Newborn screenings check your baby for rare but serious disorders that otherwise may not be detected for several days, months or even years. Finding these disorders shortly after birth can help protect them from serious illness or even death.

Breastfeeding

If you are breastfeeding remember to continue avoiding drugs and alcohol, eating healthy, and getting enough vitamins and nutrients.