This is the only routine appointment with your OB after delivery. Let’s make it count.
“Cleared for activity” at 6 weeks does not mean you are ready to go back to pre-pregnancy workouts or intensity. Your body has been through a journey and is in peak recovery mode. Starting slow is key to reducing injuries, bleeding, and other long-term issues.
You are cleared for activity.
What types of movements do you suggest for me at 6 weeks postpartum?
Eating and staying hydrated is essential for postpartum recovery. Your delivery and recovery trajectory should influence this conversation as well.
Make sure you are eating and staying hydrated.
How much water should I be drinking each day, and what foods should I focus on or avoid at this stage?
Making sure your incisions and tears are healing properly is taken seriously at your 6-week appointment — your doctor will also press on your stomach to check that your uterus is shrinking properly. But your body is still recovering. Speak up and share how your body is actually feeling. Early intervention is key to a smooth postpartum recovery.
Everything is healing and looking good.
I am still peeing my pants quite often — how do I start healing that?
Emotional and mental health is just as meaningful as your physical health in postpartum. In fact, postpartum depression peaks 3–6 months after having a baby — not 6 weeks. If you are having emotional or mental health symptoms that feel overwhelming, they are. Ask about mental health care provided by your OB’s office or a trusted recommendation. Don’t wait for symptoms to “get worse.” They matter today.
Your mental health screening looked ok.
I can’t stop crying. Is that normal?
Just because you are cleared for sexual activity does not mean you are ready — emotionally, physically, or mentally. That’s ok. You decide when you are ready. If you are, great. Don’t be nervous to ask your doctor for tips on how to make the first time after baby a more enjoyable experience for you.
You are cleared for sexual activity.
Do you have suggestions on how to make the first time after birth not hurt?
Birth control is important to think about in postpartum. There are a lot of myths and old wives’ tales about fertility in postpartum and while breastfeeding. Another pregnancy can happen — and does happen — during postpartum. Your birth control method is a personal choice. Your family planning goals, your medical history, and your recent pregnancy experience should all factor into your choice.
What would you like for birth control?
Given my pregnancy history and future pregnancy goals, is there one you recommend?
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