Your 6-week postnatal check

Your GP surgery should offer and provide you with a postnatal check. You can request an appointment for a check yourself, especially if you have any concerns. It's a good idea to make a list of questions to take along with you.

Your baby's health should also be checked at around this time by a GP. This check is known as the baby's 6 to 8 week check.

Your postnatal check can be done immediately before or after your baby's 6 to 8 week check. But it can also be done at a separate time if you would like it to be.

You can read more about your baby's health and development reviews, including what happens at their 6 to 8 week check.

What may happen at your postnatal check

The following is usually offered at your postnatal check, although this may vary according to where you live:

• You'll be asked how you're feeling as part of a general discussion about your mental health and wellbeing.
• You'll be asked if you still have any vaginal discharge and whether you've had a period since the birth.
• Your blood pressure will be checked if you had problems during pregnancy or immediately after the birth.
• You may be offered an examination to see if your stitches have healed if you had an episiotomy or caesarean section.
• You may be offered an examination if you had a vaginal birth and have had ongoing pain.
• If you were due for cervical screening while pregnant, this should be rescheduled for 12 weeks after the birth.
• You'll be asked about contraception.
• You may be asked how feeding your baby is going and whether you have had any problems and need support.
• You may be given advice about the use of vitamin D supplements if you're breastfeeding (vitamin D should help both you and your baby).
• If you're overweight or obese, your doctor may ask to weigh you. They may give you weight loss advice, including guidance on healthy eating and physical activity.

Things to tell your doctor

Tell your doctor if you're feeling sad or anxious, or have any other worries about your mental health. Looking after a baby can sometimes feel overwhelming. Do not feel you have to struggle alone or put on a brave face. It's not a sign that you're a bad parent. You need to get help, as you may have a mental health condition, such as postnatal depression. Your doctor or health visitor can provide help and support.

Also tell your doctor if:

• you're having trouble with farting or holding in your pee, or you're soiling yourself with poo
• having sex is painful
• you've been having pain in the area between your vagina and bottom (perineum)
• you're not sure you've had all of the current recommended adult vaccines, such as the MMR vaccine