Within twelve weeks after delivery, during a postpartum check-up, Dr Benecke will check the mother's mood, emotional well-being, sleeping habits as well as symptoms of fatigue and discuss contraception, birth spacing, caring for the newborn and feeding. During the physical exam, Dr Benecke will examine the abdomen, vagina, cervix and uterus, and after that address, any issues the new mother may experience including postpartum depression.

After delivery, it is normal for the mother to shed a superficial mucous membrane that once lined the uterus during pregnancy. Vaginal discharge composed of an artificial layer and blood occurs for weeks. It will be substantial for the first few days and gradually become watery and yellowish-white or pink-brown.

Mild contractions termed “afterpains,” similar to menstrual cramps occur in the early few days after delivery and helps compress blood vessels in the uterus to prevent excessive bleeding. Due to the release of the hormone, oxytocin, contractions will occur while breastfeeding. Dr Benecke will prescribe an over-the-counter pain reliever to reduce pain associated with contractions.

Vaginal delivery can stretch the mother’s pelvic floor muscles leading to incontinence which may cause the mother to leak drops of urine when laughing, coughing or sneezing. Incontinence usually improves within weeks but may persist for longer in some cases. Wearing sanitary pads and toning pelvic floor muscles by doing Kegels will help control the bladder.

Consuming high fibre foods such as whole grains, fruits and vegetables and drinking water will keep stools soft and promote regular bowel movement. Developing swollen veins in the lower rectum or anus is common after delivery. Soaking in a warm bath for twenty minutes three times a day will help relieve swelling near the anus.

It’s common for mothers to experience engorgement a few days after delivery, and if the dark circle of skin around the nipple is engorged, the newborn might experience difficulty latching. Frequent breastfeeding and placing cold, wet washcloths over the breasts between feedings will help minimise engorgement. Using a breast pump will relieve breast discomfort during feeding.