Postpartum Recovery and Check-Ups | Prof. Dr. İkbal Kaygusuz

The Postpartum Period: Recovery and Check-Ups

Prof. Dr. İkbal Kaygusuz Last reviewed: 25 September 2026 2 min read

In short: The postpartum period covers about six weeks after birth. The uterus returns to its size, bleeding (lochia) decreases and the body begins returning to its pre-pregnancy state. Check-ups are recommended in the first weeks and at six weeks. Fever, increasing bleeding, a painful swollen leg, breathlessness and persistent low mood need prompt assessment.

What happens in the body?

Lochia: may be heavier than a period at first, then becomes a lighter discharge and stops within 4-6 weeks.
Afterpains: cramps, especially while breastfeeding, help the uterus shrink.
Wound healing: episiotomy or tear stitches and a caesarean wound usually heal in 2-6 weeks.
Breasts: milk usually comes in on days 2-4; frequent feeding supports supply.

Postnatal check-ups

An examination is recommended in the first week and at six weeks, covering wound healing, the uterus, bleeding, blood pressure, breastfeeding, mood and contraception. Women who had diabetes or high blood pressure in pregnancy need extra tests.

Breastfeeding

Exclusive breastfeeding for six months, then continued breastfeeding with complementary foods, is recommended. It protects the baby from infections, helps the uterus recover and lowers the mother's future risk of breast and ovarian cancer and type 2 diabetes.

Mental health after birth

Mood swings in the first two weeks ("baby blues") are common and pass on their own. Low mood, anxiety, sleep problems or lack of interest in the baby lasting beyond two weeks need assessment for postnatal depression, which is treatable.

Contraception

Breastfeeding alone is not reliable contraception. Suitable options for breastfeeding mothers (IUD, progestogen-only pill or implant) are planned at the postnatal check. Implant use while breastfeeding was studied in research co-authored by Prof. Dr. İkbal Kaygusuz.

Seek care immediately for

Soaking a pad within an hour or passing large clots
Fever over 38 °C or foul-smelling discharge
A painful swollen leg, chest pain or breathlessness
Severe headache or visual disturbance
Thoughts of harming yourself or the baby

Frequently Asked Questions

When can we have sex after birth?

Usually once bleeding has stopped and stitches have healed, often after the six-week check.

When can I drive after a caesarean?

When you can wear a seatbelt comfortably and brake suddenly without pain, usually after 3-6 weeks.

Sources

The information on this website is for general information only and does not replace a medical consultation.