MemorialCare - Your Guide to Postpartum and Newborn Care

FOLLOW-UP CARE After you get home, remember to schedule a follow-up appointment with your health care provider. ACOG recommends:

• A phone call, video chat, or in-person checkup with your medical provider (physician or midwife) within 3 weeks after giving birth • An in-person visit with your health care provider no later than 12 weeks after the birth • Ongoing medical care for any health conditions, chronic diseases, or complications present before, during, or after childbirth After your in-person appointment (6 to 12 weeks postpartum), it’s very important that you continue to make your physical and mental health a top priority. What to do • Stay focused on any health issues (diabetes, blood pressure, obesity) • Keep your immunizations (vaccines, shots) up to date • Attend follow-up appointments with all health care providers

HEALTHY HABITS Pregnancy and childbirth can put your body under a great deal of physical stress. One of the best ways to start feeling better is to return to basic activities proven to contribute to a healthy lifestyle.

What can help • 6 to 8 hours of sleep (or resting in bed) nightly • Eating healthy, nutritionally balanced foods • Gradually returning to regular exercise Nutrition

Eating a wide variety of nutrient-rich foods from all food groups supports your physical and mental well-being. To keep your energy level steady, aim for 3 meals a day, plus 1 or 2 healthy snacks. If you’re not already doing it, start drinking plenty of water to stay hydrated. What to eat • Lean proteins • Fruits • Vegetables • High-fiber carbohydrates • Fats (avocados, nuts, seeds) Continue to make healthy eating an important part of your postpartum routine.

PHYSICAL ACTIVITY Another important way to improve your health is to start actively moving again. Talk to your health care provider about how soon you can start exercising and which activities

are safe. Then start slowly and don’t push yourself too hard. Work your way up to walking 20 to 30 minutes per day and start doing simple exercises to strengthen your back and stomach muscles. Benefits of exercise • Increased energy • Better sleep quality • Anxiety and stress relief

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Your Guide to Postpartum and Newborn Care