Postnatal Care and Examination

Postpartum care and examination are crucial processes to assess the health status of both the mother and the baby after childbirth, monitor the recovery process, and take necessary precautions. During this period, the health of both the mother and the baby is observed, and interventions are made when needed. Here is a detailed explanation of postpartum care and examination:

Initial Postpartum Examination: Immediately after birth, both the mother and the baby are evaluated by a healthcare team. The first hour postpartum examination for the mother and the initial examination for the baby are essential. During these examinations, the mother's postpartum bleeding, uterine contractions, and overall health are assessed, while the baby's adaptation to life outside the womb, breathing, skin color, reflexes, weight, length, and general health are checked.

Monitoring and Follow-Up: The postpartum monitoring and follow-up process is essential for mothers who gave birth in a hospital or at home. During this period, the mother's vital signs such as blood pressure, pulse, and temperature are monitored, and the postpartum recovery process is tracked. The baby's feeding, urination and bowel movements, and sleep patterns are also regularly monitored.

Breastfeeding Counseling: In the postpartum period, breastfeeding counselors or childbirth educators provide support and advice on breastfeeding. Topics include the correct breastfeeding technique, the need for frequent breastfeeding, and tips to increase breast milk production.

Postpartum Pain Management: Managing pain after childbirth is crucial for the mother's comfort and recovery. Pain management is typically achieved with analgesic medications or pain control methods following epidural anesthesia.

Psychological Support and Counseling: Emotional changes, postpartum depression, and anxiety are common in the postpartum period. Psychological support and counseling services are provided to address these issues. Necessary support is given to ensure the mother and the family navigate this period healthily.

Recovery and Rehabilitation: As the mother's body heals from the childbirth process during the postpartum period, physical rehabilitation, pelvic floor exercises, postpartum yoga, or pilates can help strengthen the body and return it to its pre-pregnancy state.

The postpartum care and examination process is planned and carried out to protect the health of the mother and baby and support the postpartum recovery process. Regular check-ups, monitoring, and specialist counseling services should be obtained to ensure this process is managed successfully.