What might your GP postnatal check involve?

What happens in your six-week postnatal check will vary depending on your GP and how long your appointment is. They can also vary due to there being no set guidelines for these appointments. This means that the GP will most likely be guided by you and what you would like to discuss so it’s good to be prepared. It also leaves it open to their personal beliefs and experiences. In England, all mums are entitled to a six-week postnatal check.

This check is a great opportunity to discuss any problems or questions that you may be having. You can also ask your GP to examine you if you feel something’s wrong, it’s SO easy to say that everything’s ok when it isn’t or to forget an important detail once you’re at the appointment.

If, however, you do forget something or would like to discuss a problem sooner than you can get an appointment, you can always ask your GP, midwife, health visitor or birth worker if you have one. They will likely be able to assist and if not can signpost you to the best place to get the help you need.

Checklist

There are so many things that can be covered in your six-week check-up but here are a few of them that you might want to think about in advance of your appointment.

1. How are you really feeling? Do you feel supported?

2. Vaginal discharge- have you had a period since giving birth? Do you have any unusual discharge, for example large blood clots or symptoms of thrush?

3. If you had a caesarean birth, episiotomy or tear- are your stitches healing, OK? Do you feel any pain?

4. Going to the toilet- are you leaking any wee? Are you farting or pooing when you don’t mean to? Are you experiencing any pain when you poo?

5. Would you like advice about doing pelvic floor exercises?

6. Breast health and feeding- if you’re breastfeeding, is it going, ok? Do you have any questions? Any symptoms of mastitis?

7. Legs- do you have any varicose veins? Do you have any swelling or any leg symptoms that might suggest a blood clot?

8. Weight- would you like some advice on healthy eating and/or understanding your new body?

9. Medical problems- did you have a medical problem that appeared or worsened in pregnancy that you would like the GP to check up on?

10. Contraception- do you plan to use it and if so, what type would you prefer?

11. Smear test- did you miss a smear test because you were pregnant and need to reschedule it?

12. MMR- have you had two doses of MMR? You can have them done by your practice nurse but should avoid getting pregnant until a month after having an MMR vaccination.

Your GP is there to help you, try to share any worries and concerns that you may have.

How do you really feel?

Becoming a parent is a massive life change and it’s normal to feel overwhelmed after you give birth. But if your feelings start to affect how you live your life, you may require additional care and mental health support..

Is it common to feel like this?

It has been cited that around one in five women will experience mental health issues during pregnancy or in the year after giving birth. However, a survey by NCT found that half of new mothers experience emotional problems during this time. Sadly, as many as 60% of these mothers who were experiencing emotional problems felt too worried or ashamed to be able to discuss them. If you are experiencing emotional concerns then you’re not alone and there are services that can help.

What can the GP do?

You could speak to your GP about getting some help and support if you need it. It’s worth discussing any problems you may have as 82% of women say that treatment really does help.

How was your experience with your GP at your 6 week Check?