Beyond The Baby: Why Mom’s Checkups Matter 

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Becoming a mom is an exciting journey filled with joy, challenges, and countless new experiences. But amidst the excitement of bringing a newborn into the world, it is all too common for many of us to forget one crucial aspect: our overall wellbeing.

I will also be important for us to have regular checkups and they are absolutely just as important as those for our little ones. Below, we will talk about why our checkups matter and how they can make a significant difference in our health. 

Not only is it important to have these check ups, but also advocate for proper care during these visits as well.

Checkups can help with breastfeeding

New mother’s often face a number of feeding challenges when baby is born, such as latching issues, low milk supply, mastitis, and the list goes on. Regular checkups and followup appointments offer an opportunity to discuss any breastfeeding concerns.

My advice is always to get help as soon as you feel you need it. Don’t wait! Your doctor can offer practical advice that may help, or refer you to a lactation consultant.

Speaking with a lactation consultation before you even experience any issues is also a perfect way to familiarize yourself before the process begins.

Physicians can and should monitor your physical recovery post-pregnancy

Childbirth is a significant event for your body the many take for granted. No matter what type of delivery you chose to have, your body needs time to heal and recover. Postpartum checkups allow your doctor to assess your recovery progress and they also give reassurance for a new mom.

Things a doctor may check includes your stitches, ensuring your uterus is returning to some normalcy, your mental state, and even look for signs of any complications or illnesses such as ovarian cysts. For such cases, mom checkups can lead to early detection and proper treatment for ovarian cyst before it progresses. 

If you feel you need to see a doctor before the scheduled time, again, don’t wait. Remember to put your health at the forefront as well.

Checkups are an opportunity for family planning talks

Family planning is a crucial topic that should be addressed during both your pregnancy and postpartum visits. Whether you are considering more children in the future or not, it’s essential to discuss your options.

Your doctor can provide information on birth control methods that suit your lifestyle and health needs. They can also advise on the ideal timing to plan for your future with your personal health in mind

Checkups promote better nutrition and exercise

Your nutritional needs change after pregnancy as well. Not only do you need a balanced diet to support breastfeeding and replenish your body’s nutrients, but exercise can aid in your recovery as well. Regular checkups are a great time to discuss both your meal routines and appropriate ways to ad exercise into your life.

It’s hard, but I often felt better when I made time for even a simple walk.

Your doctor can offer personalized advice to help you maintain a healthy lifestyle postpartum.

Your doctor can help with sleep and fatigue management

New moms will more than likely struggle with sleep deprivation. It doesn’t get said enough. Chronic lack of quality sleep can affect your mental and physical wellbeing.

If mom is not receiving any help, a checkup could be a great resource to discuss options if exhaustion sets in.

During your checkups, you can discuss strategies to manage fatigue and improve your sleep quality. Your doctor can offer practical tips and suggest resources to help you cope. 

You can ask for help regarding relationships and sexual health issues

Your relationship dynamics might change after having a baby. It’s normal to experience shifts in intimacy and sexual health. Postpartum checkups provide a safe space to talk about these changes as well.

Your doctor can offer advice on resuming sexual activity, addressing discomfort, and ensuring you’re both physically and emotionally ready. 

Checkups are an opportunity to build a support network

Regular checkups aren’t just about physical health; they’re also a chance to build a support network. Your healthcare provider can connect you with support groups, counseling services, and community resources. Don’t be ashamed to ask for everything that you ned!

Having a strong support system can make a world of difference in your postpartum journey. 

Regular checkups promote preventive care

Doing actions to take care of your health today prevents having to deal with major illnesses down the road. Regular checkups help catch potential problems early when they’re easier to treat.

From screening for postpartum depression to monitoring blood pressure, these visits are crucial for your long-term health.

Doctors can help you manage post-pregnancy weight gains

Many new mothers are eager to lose the weight gained during pregnancy. While it’s can be important to return to a healthy weight for your physique,] it’s equally important to do so safely, at your own pace, without pressure. Crash diets and intense exercise routines can be harmful in many ways.

During your checkups, your doctor can help you develop a realistic and healthy plan for your health. They can provide nutritional advice (or refer you) and suggest suitable exercises that align with your postpartum recovery. 

Checkups can help you monitor your vaccinations

Your baby will receive numerous vaccinations in the first year, but you shouldn’t overlook your own immunization needs. Certain vaccines, like the flu shot, are crucial for new moms.

These vaccines protect you and, by extension, your baby from serious illnesses. Discuss your vaccination schedule with your doctor during your postpartum visits to ensure you’re fully protected. 

Doctors can help with skin and hair changes

After having a baby, you can observe changes to your hair and skin. Conditions like melasma, hair loss, stretch marks, and so on are just some of those.

While skin and hair issues post-pregnancy are often temporary, they can affect your self-esteem. Regular checkups are an opportunity to discuss these changes with your doctor. They can recommend treatments or lifestyle adjustments to help manage these conditions and improve your confidence. 

They can help monitor blood pressure and blood sugar

Even if you didn’t have issues with blood pressure or blood sugar during pregnancy, it’s essential to monitor these levels after having your baby.

Conditions like postpartum preeclampsia and gestational diabetes can have lingering effects. Regular checkups allow your doctor to keep an eye on these and take action if necessary. 

Checkups can help deal with pelvic floor issues

Pelvic floor health is a significant concern after childbirth. Many women experience issues like incontinence or even, less frequently, pelvic organ prolapse. These conditions can be uncomfortable but they’re common and treatable.

As you can see, there are numerous reasons to make sure that you maintain a consistent schedule to see professionals that can help.

Being a mom is a beautiful experience, but it comes with its challenges. By prioritizing regular checkups, you’re investing in your health and well-being. These appointments are a chance to address any physical, mental, and emotional health concerns.