Abstract
The 6-to-8 week postnatal check marks an important face-to-face review for a new mother and her newborn. The approach to this review, with a focus on the mother’s physical and mental wellbeing, has relevance to primary care doctors’ training in obstetrics and gynaecology. A typical review will routinely consider aspects of physical and psychological wellbeing, including coping as a new parent, for example with newborn feeding. The physical review includes aspects of recovery after delivery including lochia, wound healing after caesarian section, pelvic floor health (including vaginal tears) and assessment for urinary and faecal incontinence. Physiological changes in blood pressure and blood test results occur and interpretation demands experience to ensure appropriate reassurance. Chronic and any new medical conditions diagnosed in pregnancy (including gestational diabetes mellitus and pregnancy-induced hypertension) require review, discussion and follow-up as they can impact on short and longer term health. This article explores common postnatal themes and medical conditions including early recognition and management.
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