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Three reasons why postpartum care is important

Our San Antonio OBGYNs explain why postpartum care is important for your health in the fourth trimester, the months after you give birth.

The postpartum period, also known as the fourth trimester, begins right after your baby is born and lasts for another 12 weeks. Some of the changes you experience may last longer than three months. Postpartum care addresses vital aspects of your physical and mental health. Our San Antonio OBGYNs want you to understand why postpartum care is important for you and your baby.

First, you experience many physical changes during the fourth trimester

After you give birth, your postpartum recovery period begins. You receive acute care in the hospital, but after you go home, you will experience several physical symptoms. Even if you feel fantastic, your physician still needs to perform a postpartum examination. There can be problems and complications that you don’t recognize that require medical care, which is one reason why following up with us for postpartum care is important.

During this check-up, our team checks your weight, blood pressure, diabetes complications and breast health. Our OBGYNs also perform a pelvic examination. This appointment is the perfect time for you to ask questions about your recovery, breastfeeding, birth control and other concerns.

Second, postpartum care is important for your mental health

Society sometimes teaches women to hide their emotions. People may tell you that your emotional symptoms are “normal,” and you will get over them in time. It’s important to discuss your mental health with medical professionals, rather than relying on others’ opinions.

There are a wide variety of emotional symptoms that occur during the fourth trimester. Your feelings can range from sadness that will go away after a few weeks, known as the “baby blues,” to postpartum depression that causes more extreme symptoms of despair and sadness. This type of depression requires treatment.

Our San Antonio OBGYNs also need to know if you have postpartum anxiety that causes you to worry excessively, lose sleep or experience heart palpitations. Postpartum care is important because it is the only safe and effective way to address your mental health issues.

Last, but definitely not least, self-care is essential after you give birth

You have to prioritize your health after your baby is born. Your baby needs a healthy mom. Here are a few things you should do.

  • Rest as often as you can.
  • Ask for help with the baby when you need it.
  • Don’t rush into too much activity before you are ready.
  • Don’t hesitate to call our OBGYNs when you have questions or concerns.

Talk to our San Antonio OBGYNs about the care you need after your baby is born

Postpartum care is important for you, your baby, your partner and your family. Our entire team is here to help you during your fourth trimester and beyond. Contact us for an appointment.