{"id":315166,"date":"2024-10-15T10:30:33","date_gmt":"2024-10-15T14:30:33","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.oviahealth.com\/?post_type=article&p=315166"},"modified":"2024-11-06T13:20:57","modified_gmt":"2024-11-06T18:20:57","slug":"the-latest-guidelines-for-postpartum-care","status":"publish","type":"article","link":"https:\/\/www.oviahealth.com\/guide\/315166\/the-latest-guidelines-for-postpartum-care\/","title":{"rendered":"The latest guidelines for postpartum care"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

The recommendations for postpartum care have changed over the last few years. Instead of a single six-week postpartum visit with your OB-GYN, The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) now recommends holistic care through the \u201cfourth trimester\u201d\u2014the three months after you give birth.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

During those first few months, you\u2019re recovering from pregnancy and birth, adjusting to significant changes in your body, and adapting to big life changes. Getting postpartum care can help you through this transition and set the stage for good health in the years to come. In some cases, serious pregnancy-related complications can also develop during the postpartum period, so while it can be easy to focus your time and attention on your new baby, it\u2019s important not to overlook your own well-being.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When to see your healthcare provider<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Experts recommend meeting with your OB-GYN provider within the first three weeks after giving birth<\/strong>, either in person or by telehealth, to discuss recovery and talk about health concerns. Since every person is different, this is also a good time to plan for the care you\u2019ll need during the next few months.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Experts also suggest a comprehensive postpartum visit no later than 12 weeks after birth<\/strong>. This visit covers physical and emotional health and is an opportunity to plan for well-person care after the fourth trimester.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Note: Check in with your insurance company to make sure they cover multiple postpartum checkups. Since the guidelines have changed recently, some insurers may still only cover one visit. <\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

What to expect at your postpartum visits<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

At your postpartum appointments, your healthcare provider will usually do a physical exam, which includes checking your uterus, cervix, vagina, and abdomen to make sure you\u2019re healing well. Your provider will also check in about your emotional wellbeing. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Your provider will talk to you about: <\/p>\n\n\n\n