The 6-week postpartum visit is a big one, and there’s a lot to talk about. This newsletter is co-written with ParentData by Emily Oster to help you prepare. ParentData is a data- driven newsletter about pregnancy, parenting, and more — grounded in evidence-based research. Learn More.
Checking in
What to expect: For most people, the 6-week postpartum visit is the first time you’ll see your OB or midwife after delivery. You’ve probably seen your pediatrician a few times by now, but this visit is all about taking care of you — how your body is recovering from birth and how you're adjusting to life caring for a new baby.
While this visit depends on your pregnancy, labor, and birth experiences, the general structure is fairly universal — your birth team will cover key topics and give you space to talk. Below, we’ve outlined what to expect, and how to prepare, so you don’t leave the visit wishing you had remembered to ask that one last question.
Physical Health
The first core issue you’ll cover in this postpartum visit is your physical health.
At the visit, your OB or midwife will check your physical recovery — regardless of whether you had a vaginal birth or a C-section. This will include checking on wound healing, internal healing, stitches, and more. They will ask you about any ongoing pain, including pelvic pain, and whether you are still having postpartum bleeding.
At this stage, some (but not all) women will still be bleeding, but it should be lighter if still present. Any stitches from vaginal tearing should have dissolved, and cesarean incisions should be healing. If any of this isn’t the case, this is an important time to discuss it with your provider.
To prepare for this part of the visit, it may be helpful to do the following...
- Write down any symptoms you're experiencing which are concerning or bothersome to you. Jotting down notes in a notes app or in the Nara Baby app can help.
- Write down any activities you would like to do but aren’t sure about yet (like exercise, sex, walking, etc.) — this is a good time to ask those questions.
Mental Health
The second topic you’ll cover at this visit is mental health.
A standard part of the 6-week visit is a screening for postpartum depression and anxiety, along with a chance to share how you’re doing emotionally. This visit is a time to be open, honest, and most importantly, to ask for care if you need support. Postpartum depression affects many women and can be treated; your OB or midwife is here to help.
To prepare for this part of the visit, it may be helpful to do the following...
- Prepare to be honest. It sometimes feels like we should tell everyone things are going fine even when they are not. Doig this screening honestly is the best way to get help if you need it.
- Ideally, do a postpartum depression screen on your own time before the visit.
- If you do feel your mental health is struggling, be prepared to ask about treatment options. They are there, I promise.
Sex
The six-week visit is often when people are “cleared for sex.”
I want to be very clear: being physically okay for sex is not the same as being ready to have sex. When and how you return to intimacy is a personal decision that should feel right for you and your partner. Many people with young children experience changes in their sex life, and that’s completely normal.
If you do plan to be sexually active, this visit is also a good opportunity to talk about birth control. If you’re not planning another pregnancy right away, discussing your options now can help you feel prepared and supported.
To prepare for this part of the visit, it may be helpful to do the following...
- Write down any questions or worries you have about a return to sex! This is your chance to ask.
- Think about your planned timing of more children. The length of time you want to wait (if you do plan to have more) will partially determine what birth control is the best fit.
Need more postpartum tips? We've got you covered!
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— Emily Oster,
Parenting Author & Economist
