Questions to Ask at 6 Week Postpartum Appointment
Make the most of your postpartum checkup with these essential questions that address your physical recovery, emotional health, and preparation for the months ahead.
1Is my physical recovery progressing normally?
Click to see why this works
Is my physical recovery progressing normally?
Click to see why this works
Why this works
Provides a clear assessment of your healing and identifies any areas that need additional attention or treatment.
2When can I resume exercise and what activities are safe to start with?
Click to see why this works
When can I resume exercise and what activities are safe to start with?
Click to see why this works
Why this works
Ensures you return to physical activity safely without risking injury or delaying recovery.
3Are there any concerns about my incision or tear healing?
Click to see why this works
Are there any concerns about my incision or tear healing?
Click to see why this works
Why this works
Addresses specific wound healing and identifies any issues that need treatment or monitoring.
4What should I expect regarding my menstrual cycle returning?
Click to see why this works
What should I expect regarding my menstrual cycle returning?
Click to see why this works
Why this works
Sets realistic expectations for fertility and hormonal changes in the coming months.
5What birth control options are safe while breastfeeding?
Click to see why this works
What birth control options are safe while breastfeeding?
Click to see why this works
Why this works
Helps you make informed decisions about contraception that won't affect milk supply or baby.
6Is it normal to still feel pain or discomfort? What should I be concerned about?
Click to see why this works
Is it normal to still feel pain or discomfort? What should I be concerned about?
Click to see why this works
Why this works
Clarifies what's typical versus what requires medical attention, helping you know when to seek help.
7How can I manage ongoing pelvic floor issues or incontinence?
Click to see why this works
How can I manage ongoing pelvic floor issues or incontinence?
Click to see why this works
Why this works
Addresses common but often unspoken concerns and provides treatment options.
8What can I do about persistent fatigue and low energy?
Click to see why this works
What can I do about persistent fatigue and low energy?
Click to see why this works
Why this works
Identifies whether fatigue is normal recovery or a sign of an underlying issue needing treatment.
9Are my mood and emotions within the normal postpartum range?
Click to see why this works
Are my mood and emotions within the normal postpartum range?
Click to see why this works
Why this works
Opens dialogue about mental health and screens for postpartum depression or anxiety.
10When can we safely resume sexual activity?
Click to see why this works
When can we safely resume sexual activity?
Click to see why this works
Why this works
Provides clear guidance on physical readiness and addresses any concerns about resuming intimacy.
11What should I know about caring for my body during breastfeeding?
Click to see why this works
What should I know about caring for my body during breastfeeding?
Click to see why this works
Why this works
Ensures you're supporting your nutritional needs and addressing breastfeeding-related physical issues.
12Are there any supplements or vitamins I should continue taking?
Click to see why this works
Are there any supplements or vitamins I should continue taking?
Click to see why this works
Why this works
Clarifies ongoing nutritional needs, especially if breastfeeding or recovering from deficiencies.
13What warning signs should I watch for that would require immediate medical attention?
Click to see why this works
What warning signs should I watch for that would require immediate medical attention?
Click to see why this works
Why this works
Empowers you to recognize serious complications and know when to seek emergency care.
14How can I address hair loss or other physical changes I'm experiencing?
Click to see why this works
How can I address hair loss or other physical changes I'm experiencing?
Click to see why this works
Why this works
Provides reassurance about normal postpartum changes and treatment options for bothersome symptoms.
15What should I do if I'm struggling with breastfeeding or pumping?
Click to see why this works
What should I do if I'm struggling with breastfeeding or pumping?
Click to see why this works
Why this works
Connects you with resources and support for feeding challenges.
16Is it safe to get pregnant again, and how long should I wait?
Click to see why this works
Is it safe to get pregnant again, and how long should I wait?
Click to see why this works
Why this works
Provides guidance on optimal spacing for your health and recovery.
17What can I do about ongoing sleep deprivation and its effects?
Click to see why this works
What can I do about ongoing sleep deprivation and its effects?
Click to see why this works
Why this works
Addresses a universal new parent concern and provides practical coping strategies.
18Are there any lifestyle changes I should make to support my recovery?
Click to see why this works
Are there any lifestyle changes I should make to support my recovery?
Click to see why this works
Why this works
Provides holistic guidance on diet, activity, and self-care for optimal healing.
19What should I expect at my next checkup, and when should it be?
Click to see why this works
What should I expect at my next checkup, and when should it be?
Click to see why this works
Why this works
Clarifies ongoing care needs and ensures continuity of postpartum support.
20Is there anything else you recommend based on my specific situation?
Click to see why this works
Is there anything else you recommend based on my specific situation?
Click to see why this works
Why this works
Opens the door for personalized advice and ensures nothing important is overlooked.
Best Practices for Postpartum Appointments
Expert tips and techniques for getting the most out of these questions.
Best Practices
Write Down Questions Beforehand
Sleep deprivation can make you forget what you wanted to ask. Keep a running list on your phone and bring it to the appointment.
Be Honest About Your Struggles
This is not the time to minimize problems. Your provider can only help if they know what you're experiencing.
Bring a Support Person
Having someone to help remember information and advocate for you can be valuable, especially if you're struggling.
Question Sequences
The Physical Recovery Sequence
The Mental and Emotional Health Sequence
Common Pitfalls
Don't Downplay Your Symptoms
If something feels wrong, mention it. Don't assume struggles are just part of being a new parent—some issues need treatment.
Don't Focus Only on Baby
This appointment is about YOUR health. Make sure to address your own needs, not just questions about the baby.
Don't Leave Without Understanding Next Steps
Make sure you know what to do if issues arise and when your next checkup should be.