Postpartum Care in Bursa

The first six weeks after birth are known in medicine as the postpartum period (puerperium). During this time the uterus returns to its former size, the birth canal heals, hormone levels readjust and breastfeeding begins. At our private practice in Nilüfer, Bursa, postpartum care is planned follow-up that addresses the mother's physical and emotional recovery together. This page brings together the topics commonly encountered after birth and the related procedure pages.

Postpartum check-up schedule

First week: After a vaginal birth the stitches are checked, and after a cesarean section the incision site; the amount of bleeding, fever, foul-smelling discharge and pain or swelling in the legs are asked about. Breastfeeding problems and blood pressure are assessed at this visit.

Sixth week: A gynecological examination assesses the shrinking of the uterus and the healing of the birth canal; a Pap smear test is planned if needed, birth control methods are discussed, and mood and sleep patterns are asked about.

Vaginal laxity and the pelvic floor

During a vaginal birth the pelvic floor muscles and connective tissue are stretched; some women notice reduced sensation during intercourse or a feeling of looseness. The first step is pelvic floor (Kegel) exercises done with the correct technique; they are done several times a day by squeezing the muscles for 5–10 seconds and then relaxing them, and their effect is expected within weeks. If the complaint persists, once breastfeeding has ended and tissue healing is complete, surgical options such as vaginoplasty or non-surgical methods such as laser vaginal tightening are evaluated together with their expectations and limitations.

Postpartum urinary incontinence

Leaking urine when coughing, sneezing or laughing is common after birth and in most women improves within months with pelvic floor exercises. For complaints that last longer than six months, affect daily life or come with a sudden urge to urinate, a detailed evaluation for urinary incontinence treatment is carried out; options are stepped from exercises and lifestyle changes to medication and, when necessary, surgery.

Sexual health

Resuming sexual intercourse usually waits until the sixth-week check-up; it is important that the stitches have healed, the bleeding has stopped and the mother feels ready. During breastfeeding, low estrogen can lead to vaginal dryness and discomfort during intercourse; lubricants and, if necessary, local treatments help during this period. If pain, lack of desire or involuntary muscle tightening persists, a sexual counseling session can be planned.

Mood and postpartum depression

In the first days after birth, crying, sensitivity and anxiety (the baby blues) are common and usually pass on their own within two weeks. If the symptoms last longer than two weeks, or if there is a feeling of being unable to care for the baby, constant hopelessness, inability to sleep, or thoughts of harming yourself or the baby, this may be postpartum depression and requires treatment. In such a situation, contact your physician or a mental health professional without delay; call 112 if necessary.

Birth control while breastfeeding

Breastfeeding alone is not a reliable method of contraception; ovulation can resume even if periods have not returned. While breastfeeding, methods with little effect on milk are usually preferred, such as progestin-only pills, an intrauterine device (IUD), condoms or the three-monthly injection; combined pills are not recommended in the first weeks. The appropriate method is chosen together at the sixth-week check-up.

When should the first check-up after birth take place?

After a vaginal birth a short check-up within the first week is recommended, and after a cesarean section an evaluation of the incision site within the first 7–10 days; in both cases a full gynecological examination is done at the sixth week. If there is fever, heavy bleeding or severe pain, do not wait for this schedule.

How long does bleeding last after birth?

The discharge called lochia usually lasts 4–6 weeks; it is red in the first days, then becomes pinkish-brown and whitish. If bleeding soaks a pad within an hour, or if there are large clots or a foul smell, you should see a physician.

When can pelvic floor exercises be started?

After a vaginal birth they can be started with gentle contractions once the pain from the stitches eases, usually in the first days; pelvic floor exercises are also beneficial after a cesarean section. If you have difficulty finding the right muscle group, it will be shown to you during the examination.

Is pain during intercourse after birth normal?

In the first weeks, mild discomfort can occur due to tenderness at the stitch site and dryness related to breastfeeding. If the pain lasts for months, prevents intercourse or is accompanied by bleeding, an examination is needed.

Every mother's needs after birth are different; the information here provides a general framework. You can make an appointment for a postpartum check-up in Bursa: 0 (539) 463 09 72.

This content is for informational purposes; a physician's examination is required for diagnosis and treatment.