Katelyn Twist, MD

Postpartum Care

The postpartum period is a time of healing, adjustment, and learning — and support matters.

After delivery, both your physical recovery and emotional well‑being are important. Our goal is to provide guidance, reassurance, and care as you recover and adjust to life after pregnancy.

What to Expect After Delivery

The postpartum period begins after delivery and continues through the first several weeks.

During this time, many patients experience:

Physical healing and recovery
Hormonal changes
Sleep deprivation and adjustment to caring for a newborn
Emotional ups and downs

These experiences are common, and you are not expected to navigate them alone.

Postpartum Visits

Most patients will have a postpartum visit around 6 weeks after delivery.
Earlier follow‑up may be scheduled if needed.

At your visit, we will:

Assess physical recovery
Review bleeding and pain control
Discuss mood and emotional well‑being
Address breastfeeding or feeding concerns
Review contraception options
Answer questions about returning to activity, work, and exercise

Please contact the office sooner if concerns arise before your scheduled appointment.

Physical Recovery

It is normal to experience:

Vaginal bleeding (lochia) that gradually decreases over weeks
Uterine cramping, especially with breastfeeding
Perineal soreness or incision discomfort
Fatigue

We will review comfort measures, pain control options, and warning signs before you leave the hospital.

Breastfeeding & Lactation Support

If you choose to breastfeed, support is available.

Nurses and lactation consultants are available during your hospital stay
Lactation nurses are available after delivery to help with latch, positioning, and questions
A breast pump prescription can be provided if desired and may be covered by insurance

Whether you breastfeed, formula feed, or both, your feeding choice will be respected.

When to Call Our Office Postpartum

Please contact us if you experience:

Heavy vaginal bleeding (soaking a pad every hour)
Fever over 100.4°F
Worsening pain not improved with medication
Redness, swelling, or drainage from an incision
Foul‑smelling vaginal discharge
Signs of infection
Severe headache, vision changes, or chest pain
Feelings of sadness, anxiety, or overwhelm that feel unmanageable
Thoughts of harming yourself or others

If you are concerned about your safety, please seek emergency care immediately.

Emotional Health After Pregnancy

Hormonal changes and life adjustments can affect mood after delivery.

Mood swings and tearfulness are common in the first 1–2 weeks
Persistent sadness, anxiety, or feeling disconnected may signal postpartum depression or anxiety

Please reach out if something doesn’t feel right — help is available, and support matters.