Postpartum: tests, tests and examinations

We don't know, and we can't tell you what examinations are done after the mother and newborn in all countries of the world, but in Brazil, in Florianopoli clinics, testing, tests and examinations are done regularly.

How it is done at us, at the level of world standards read in this article.

What are the common examinations in the postpartum period?

The postpartum period is an important time for a woman's recovery from childbirth, and checkups during this period can help identify possible problems and make sure everything is going well.

The main types of surveys and verification include:

1. general medical evaluation. The doctor checks your general health, blood pressure, pulse and temperature.

2. uterine evaluation. Performing an examination of the uterus to check its recovery and contractions. It is important to make sure the uterus is returning to its normal size.

3. Checking the stitches. If a woman has had stitches (after a cesarean section or rupture), the doctor will inspect them for infection or healing.

4. Hormonal Assessment. Measurement of hormones can be useful, especially to assess thyroid and other endocrine functions.

5. Psychological assessment. Assessment of psycho-emotional state to identify possible signs of postpartum depression or anxiety.

6. Visit your doctor at 6 weeks. This is usually the recommended time for a more thorough checkup. The doctor may do further tests including:

Cytology (cervical cancer smear).
Breast assessment.
Women's counseling center for family planning.

7.Nutrition and hydration check. Assess diet and hydration levels to support breastfeeding and recovery.

8. Regular postnatal counseling. Providing information on how to cope with changes in body and emotional state, as well as advice on caring for the newborn.

Pregnant and just-pregnant women should pay attention to their health and not hesitate to see a doctor if there are any problems or questions.

What is a postpartum uterine fundus exam?

A postpartum uterine fundus examination is an important procedure that helps doctors assess the condition of the uterus and a woman's recovery from childbirth. This examination is usually performed in the postpartum period and includes several key aspects.

The main purposes of the inspection are:

Evaluation of the condition of the uterus. The examination allows doctors to determine if the uterus is contracting properly after delivery. The uterus should gradually return to its normal size.
Checking for complications. Your doctor can detect problems such as infections, abnormal discharge, or incomplete removal of the placenta. This is important to prevent possible complications.
Assessment of the cervix and vaginal tissues. The examination allows you to assess how the tissues are healing and to check for tears or stitches.

Inspection Procedure:

Visual Examination. The doctor may perform a visual inspection of the vaginal area and the neck of the uterus.
Palpation. Palpation techniques can be used to assess the position and size of the uterus.
Discharge. The doctor can also assess the nature of the postpartum discharge, which can give an idea of the state of health.

Frequency of inspection:

These exams are usually done during hospitalization after delivery and at subsequent postpartum visits.

If any symptoms such as severe pain, unusual discharge, fever or other alarming signs occur, you should see a doctor immediately.

What tests are performed after childbirth?

After giving birth, doctors perform a number of tests and examinations to make sure that as a mother are in good health.

For the mother:

Postpartum assessment. Check stitches, if there have been tears or an episiotomy, and general health.
Blood tests. May include checking hemoglobin levels to look for possible anemia after delivery.
Hematology tests. Examination of other blood counts to look for infections or diseases.
Urinalysis. This is done to monitor kidney health and detect possible infections.
All kinds of infections. Testing for sexually transmitted infections, if necessary.
Psychological assessment. In some cases, a psycho-emotional assessment may be needed to identify postpartum depression or other disorders.

These tests help to ensure the health of both mother and baby, as well as detecting any potential problems early. If you have specific questions about recommended tests, it is always best to discuss this with your doctor.

What is the name of the postpartum test?

A postpartum test is usually called a postpartum exam or postpartum tests. In some cases, terms such as "postpartum checks" or "postpartum evaluation" may also be used. This exam allows the doctor to assess the mother's health after delivery and identify possible complications, as well as make recommendations for the care of herself and the baby.

How often are screenings performed in the early postpartum period?

During the early postpartum period, which usually includes the first 6-8 weeks after delivery, it is important to monitor the health of both mother and newborn. Here are the main recommendations for check-ups:

1. Initial postpartum examination

Usually performed within 3 to 6 weeks after delivery.
The doctor assesses the woman's general condition, checks the healing of stitches (if any), and discusses her emotional state and any possible problems such as depression or lactation issues.

3. Additional visits

If the mother has any problems (e.g., severe pain, suspected infection, depression, etc.), additional doctor visits may be necessary.

4. Breastfeeding and counseling

Counseling sessions on breastfeeding and other aspects of newborn care are important. These sessions can take place either during regular visits or separately.

What is a postpartum evaluation?

A postpartum evaluation (or postpartum checkup) is a medical assessment of a woman's condition after childbirth that helps determine her health and confidence in recovery.

Key aspects of postpartum assessment:

Uterine condition:

Checking how the uterus contracts and returns to its normal size.
Detection of possible complications such as infection or abnormal bleeding.

Reproductive health. Assessment of the vagina, cervix and perineum (the area between the vagina and anus), especially if there have been tears or an episiotomy.
Emotional state. Questioning about signs of postpartum depression or anxiety. This is an important consideration because the emotional health of the mother is critical in the postpartum period.
General Health. An assessment of general health, including energy levels, sleep, nutrition, and physical well-being.
Breastfeeding. Assessing breastfeeding problems if the mother has chosen this route and offering help with caring for the newborn.
Contraception and family planning. Discusses contraception and family planning methods for future pregnancies.

When is a postpartum evaluation done?

This evaluation most often takes place at 6-8 weeks postpartum, but may be scheduled earlier if any complications are suspected.

The importance of postpartum assessment

This assessment helps to ensure that the woman receives the medical care and support she needs during her recovery from childbirth, and helps to improve her physical and emotional well-being.

What hormones should be checked after childbirth?

After childbirth, if the doctor deems it necessary to monitor the levels of certain hormones, as they can significantly affect your body's recovery and overall health, he can ask these tests for you. Here are the main hormones to look out for:

1. Prolactin

Function. Prolactin is responsible for lactation and stimulates milk production.
Why it matters. Prolactin levels should be high during lactation. Low levels can cause feeding difficulties.
Normal levels. In lactating women, prolactin levels can fluctuate considerably, reaching values from 10 to 500 ng/mL or even higher, especially during lactation.
In women who are not breastfeeding, prolactin levels gradually decrease after childbirth and return to normal within 2 to 3 weeks. Normal prolactin levels in women can range from 5 to 25 ng/mL, but can increase significantly during breastfeeding.

2. estrogen

Function. Involved in the regulation of reproductive function and the menstrual cycle.

Why it matters. After childbirth, estrogen levels drop, which can affect your mood and personality.
Levels of estrogen (specifically estradiol) vary, but usually after childbirth, levels of this hormone become low, especially in women who are not breastfeeding.

3. Progesterone

Function. Supports pregnancy.
Why it matters. After childbirth, progesterone levels decrease, which can affect a woman's emotional state and well-being.
Normal levels. Estrogen levels gradually increase after childbirth, especially if a woman is breastfeeding. Normal levels can vary, but between 50-300 pg/mL are common post perinatal, but exact values can vary.
In lactating women, Progesterone levels remain lowered during the lactation period, which helps prevent ovulation.
Non-breastfeeding:
- Follicular phase: 30-400 picograms per milliliter (pg/mL)
- Ovulation: 100-600 pg/mL
- Luteal phase: 100-500 pg/mL

Breastfeeding. Estrogen levels in breastfeeding mothers are usually lower than in non-breastfeeding mothers because lactation suppresses ovarian action. This can be around 20-150 pg/mL, but values can vary considerably depending on individual factors.

Hormone levels can fluctuate throughout the day and changes in the body.

4. Thyroxine (T4) and Triiodothyronine (T3)

Function: Thyroid hormones that regulate metabolism.
Why it's important: Changes in thyroid function can occur after childbirth, which can lead to hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism.
Normal levels for T4. About 5-12 µg/dL (with different methods of measurement).
Normal levels for T3. About 80-200 ng/dL.
Thyroid hormone levels can be altered by pregnancy and childbirth, so it is important to monitor them, especially if symptoms of hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism occur.

5. Cortisol

Function. A stress hormone that helps the body cope with stressful situations.
Why it matters. Cortisol levels can be elevated due to the stress of labor and caring for a newborn.
Normal levels. Cortisol levels will depend on the time of day - they are usually higher in the morning and decrease towards the evening. Normal morning cortisol levels can range from 6-23 mcg/dL.
Cortisol can remain elevated during times of stress, which can be seen after childbirth.

6. Testosterone

Function. Although it is better known as a male hormone, it is also important for women.
Why it matters. Testosterone levels can affect libido and overall health.
Normal levels: Testosterone levels in postpartum women can be around 15-70 ng/dL.
Testosterone can also drop after pregnancy and return to normal over time.

Important Notes:

Hormone levels can vary greatly from woman to woman, and it is important to have the tests done under the supervision of a doctor.

If hormonal disorders such as thyroid problems or other conditions are suspected, it is important to consult with an endocrinologist.

Also keep in mind that hormone levels will normalize over time, especially if a woman is breastfeeding.

A segmental understanding of your hormonal background and the postpartum period can help you better cope with the changes occurring in your body. If you have specific symptoms or concerns, consulting with your doctor is the best solution.

If symptoms occur, such as severe mood changes, fatigue, lactation problems or general symptoms of discomfort, it is worth discussing the tests with your doctor.

The approach may vary depending on the individual condition and features.

Keeping track of your hormones after childbirth is important for your health and your baby's well-being!

What blood work is done 3 months after delivery?

Three months after delivery, different blood tests may be ordered depending on the mother's health and the doctor's recommendations.

The most common blood tests:

1. general blood count (GBC). This test helps assess your overall health, detect anemia or infections, and check your hemoglobin level and blood cell count.

2 Biochemical blood tests. This test may include checking liver function, kidney function and electrolyte levels to assess the general condition of the body after pregnancy and childbirth.

3. Hormonal testing. Checking levels of hormones such as thyroid hormones (TTG, T3, T4) can be important, especially if there are symptoms of thyroid dysfunction.

4. antibodies to infections. Testing for antibodies to infections such as HIV, syphilis, or hepatitis may be done.

5. Hemoglobin and hematocrit tests. This will help determine if the woman has anemia, which can be especially important after blood loss during childbirth.

You should always discuss with your doctor what tests you need in your particular case. This will help to identify possible problems and ensure your health and well-being.

In some cases, we perform other tests on women, depending on their condition and possible diseases. In Brazil, these are common and standardized tests. We perform these tests with the latest equipment, because the country values the life and health of each person above all else.

How the Brazilian system attracts foreign women in labor

What attracts the Brazilian system, and what foreign women who have given birth in Florianópolis maternity hospitals have noted:

Access to modern technology. Here, maternity hospitals are equipped with modern equipment and use the latest diagnostic and treatment methods.
Comprehensive screening program. Clinics have comprehensive screening programs that may include a wider range of early pregnancy tests.
Focus on prevention. Health care providers emphasize preventive measures and early diagnosis, which can reduce the risk of serious complications.
Family support. Many programs involve the active participation of expectant parents in the diagnosis and treatment process.
A cultural approach to medicine. The Brazilian health care system is culturally sensitive, which improves the interaction between doctors and patients.

While each country, and Brazil, has its own strengths in maternal and child health, approaches and attention to prevention vary, which is important to ensure the safety and comfort of both mothers and newborns.

And since it is impossible to describe everything about laboratory tests, and even more so to answer all your questions, we suggest you to contact us for more in-depth answers to your questions absolutely free of charge, and it will not oblige you to anything.

So, don't hesitate to contact us in the feedback form (link to the form, or form below) or on WhatsApp (contact number) and our consultant will answer any question you may have.

Again, all our consultations are free of charge and do not oblige you to anything. Once you have all the answers to your questions, you can continue to explore and search for the most suitable option for you.

Postpartum: tests, tests and...