Postnatal Care

Your child's birth is just the beginning of a new and exciting chapter. Dr Sheetekela understands that the postnatal period is crucial for both mother and baby.

Our postnatal care services are designed to support, guide, and care for you during this vital transition, ensuring a healthy recovery and adaptation to motherhood.

What is postnatal care?

Postnatal care refers to the medical and personal care a woman receives after giving birth. This period, often called the fourth trimester, involves physical recovery from childbirth, emotional adjustments, and learning to care for your newborn.

Dr Sheetekela's approach to postnatal care encompasses all these aspects, offering comprehensive support during the weeks following delivery.

How should I heal after childbirth?

Healing after childbirth involves:

  • Physical recovery: Rest is crucial. The body needs time to heal from the physical demands of childbirth.
  • Nutrition: A balanced diet is essential for recovery and, if breastfeeding, for milk production.
  • Exercise: Dr Sheetekela advises that gentle exercises can help regain strength and stamina.
  • Taking care of your perineal area: Particularly if you've had a vaginal delivery or episiotomy. Keeping the area clean, using cool packs, and sitting on comfortable cushions can help.
  • Emotional support: Postpartum can be an emotional time. It's essential to seek support and care for your mental health.

How often would I need to visit Dr Sheetekela for postnatal care?

The frequency of postnatal visits can vary, but typically:

  • First check-up: Usually within the first six weeks after delivery.
  • Additional visits: Depending on the individual recovery, more visits may be recommended, especially if there were complications during delivery or if you're experiencing postpartum issues.

What happens during postnatal care visits?

During your postnatal appointments, Dr Sheetekela will:

  • Assess your physical recovery: Including the uterus, cervix, and overall health.
  • Check your breast milk: Especially if breastfeeding, to identify issues like mastitis.
  • Evaluate your emotional well-being: Discussing mental health and coping strategies.
  • Discuss contraception and family planning: To determine the best approach for your future needs.
  • Address newborn care questions: Provide feeding, sleeping, and general care advice.

Postpartum recovery

Each woman's postpartum recovery is unique and includes:

  • Physical healing: Recovery from vaginal or cesarean delivery and care for any incisions or tears.
  • Managing postpartum symptoms: Including afterpains, bleeding, and hormonal shifts.
  • Emotional adjustments: Coping with mood swings, baby blues, or potential postpartum depression.

Your trusted companion in postnatal care

Dr Sheetekela's OBGYN practice is dedicated to supporting you through the postnatal period. We understand the complexities of this time and offer a nurturing, informative environment to ensure both you and your baby thrive.