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Postnatal Care
Most women have healthy pregnancies and experience normal births. The care received during the postnatal period can, however, enhance this experience and help detect any complications that may develop post delivery. The postnatal period is the time during which the body recovers from the child birth experience. Generally, it begins after delivery and extends about 6 weeks afterward, as the body gradually returns to its pre-pregnancy state. Postnatal home visiting services are provided for mother and child during the first 10 days post-delivery, for all public clients. (see Home Visits)
At Postnatal Clinics, women are interviewed and examined to ensure that they are recovering properly. Additionally, the health of their babies is also assessed. As the body regains its former condition some changes will be noticed:
Physical Changes
Involution of the Uterus
This is the process of the uterus contracting to a non-pregnant size, although it will never return completely to its former, pre-pregnancy size.
Vaginal discharge
Lochia, the vaginal discharge, will be experienced over the next 4 to 6 weeks. It is the debris that the uterus sheds after delivery. The discharge will change from red to pinkish to yellow to white and will increase with activity or breastfeeding.
Hormonal changes
May experience mood fluctuations from sadness to deep depression as adjustments are made to motherhood.
Step-by-step Instructions
1. Receive appointment from maternity ward (or contact Community Health Clinic to receive appointment).
2. Attend postnatal clinic.
3. Follow recommendation provided by health physician.
4. Return for test results.
5. Receive appointment for family planning clinic.
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