Postpartum Care

Postpartum
 
The postpartum period, or puerperium, starts about an hour after the delivery of the placenta and includes the following six weeks.  There are many important areas for which to be aware during this time.  Below is a table summarizing the primary factors for consideration.
 
 
                                    Key elements of postpartum care
6-12 hours
3- 6 days
6 weeks
6 months
Baby:
breathing
warmth
feeding
cord
immunization
 
feeding
infection
routine tests
 
weight/feeding
immunization
 
development
weaning
Mother:
blood loss
pain
BP (Blood pressure)
advice
warning signs
 
breast care
temperature/infection
lochia (vaginal discharge)
mood
 
recovery
anemia
avoiding pregnancy
 
 
general health
avoiding pregnancy
continuing morbidity (illness)
 http://www.who.int/reproductive-health/publications/msm_98_3/msm_98_3_1.html
Detailed instructions and peer counseling are available to assist you in the postpartum period.  Please call PSC
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