Postpartum
Postpartum care initiates after the placenta is delivered and lasts for a total of 6-8 weeks. I am available 24/7 for questions and concerns and plan at least 5 visits before we end care for your current pregnancy.
Following Birth
Following the birth of your baby I stay with you for a few hours postpartum. Sometimes more attention is needed before I leave so this period can last 2 - 4 hrs depending on the situation.
Before I leave, I ensure that you and your baby’s vital signs are within normal limits and that you are medically stable and have been able to urinate. Eating a high-protein snack/meal as well as latching your baby with confidence are also important goals in this immediate postpartum experience.
Ongoing Support
I am available 24/7 via text and phone to answer any questions. I will come to your home for a visit 24 - 72 after the birth to see how you and baby are adjusting.
At this visit, I will weigh your baby, provide an overall assessment and offer two standard newborn tests: the PKU screening for metabolic and genetic disorders and a screening for congenital cardiac heart defects. All other screenings and vaccinations are done with your pediatrician.
Feeding Evaluations
As an IBCLC, I also provide a full feeding evaluation as part of this visit. At 1 - 3 days postpartum big changes are happening in your breasts as well as baby’s stomach. I will do another evaluation of baby’s latch, help you find positions that resolve pain or discomfort and identify any abnormalities in baby’s oral anatomy or your nipples.
Most of the time there is simply an adjustment phase as both parent and baby are finding their rhythm with lactation, however, if specialists such as an ENT, pediatric dentist or craniosacral specialist is needed, I will provide you with the necessary resources.
Some families do not plan on lactating or feeding baby breastmilk. In that case, I will help guide you and support you in feeding your baby according to your preferences.
2 - 4 Week Check-Ins
I offer a virtual or office visit at 2 weeks and 4 weeks postpartum. At these visits, we discuss how your body is healing, how lactation is taking shape and if you need any referrals for outside specialists. We also talk about the emotional journey of parenthood and how you and your family are adjusting.
Our Final Visit
Our final visit is at 6 weeks postpartum. This may be done in the office or in your home. A physical exam may include, a pelvic exam to assess uterine involution, healing of any lacerations on the vulva, vagina or perineum and assessment of vaginal tone. You may also be due for a Pap smear or HPV test which can easily be done at this final visit.
We talk about your life as a new parent, how your infant feeding practices took shape and other goals, concerns or overall satisfaction with the process. This visit can also be useful for those wanting birth control methods or guidance on fertility awareness methods.
