Postpartum "lesson" plans

[Brie+3]

so we talked about prenatal visits.... but, what do you cover at your postpartum visits?

[earthangel]

Postpartum, I have some forms to find out how I can use the time most effectively. Their answers help me figure out what their greatest needs are. Sometimes I just ask the questions and write the answers because she is holding her baby. So, to answer the question, I don't have a lesson plan for postpartum - I go by what she needs and desires after finding out what her concerns are.

[doulajamie]

If mom is breastfeeding, I ask how it's going and help to troubleshoot if there is a problem unless its outside my scope and then I refer.

If mom is returning to work, we review finding quality childcare, breastfeeding while working, pumping, milk storage, and working with child care providers.

I ask the questions on the EPDS or similar questions to assess mom's well-being. I make sure mom knows about community resources (moms groups, support groups, playdates, etc) and that she has some form of social support.

I ask if the family has questions about the birth or what happened and assess how they feel about what happened.

Then it is whatever the family wants/needs to talk about, could be practical management, family issues, or sex after birth. I am comfortable with whatever they want to talk about. I really enjoy this visit!

[MamaAshley]

I never thought about asking the mom about her social outlets...good idea! Thanks doulajamie!