Going Home Postpartum
We would like to extend our heartfelt congratulations on the arrival of your baby!
As you are home with your new baby, the South Denver OB/GYN & Midwives want you to be aware of the following discharge guidelines:
Diet
You may resume a normal diet and remember you will need extra calories while breastfeeding. Dieting is not recommended at this time. Continue your prenatal vitamins until your six-week checkup or while nursing.
Activity
For the first week, minimize activity until you are more comfortable with your baby’s schedule. Take time to rest and enjoy your little one while establishing breastfeeding. After the first week, you may begin driving, housework, and shopping as you feel able. Family and friends are often eager to help—don’t hesitate to ask.
Breastfeeding
We want you to feel supported with breastfeeding. Littleton and Castle Rock hospitals offer weekly lactation groups, and our office can answer questions or refer you to a lactation consultant. Cracking and bleeding nipples are not normal and often indicate latch issues—please contact your midwife.
Contraception
Even if your period has not returned, pregnancy is still possible. Use contraception such as condoms. At your six-week checkup, we will discuss options that are safe during breastfeeding.
Office Visit
Plan to see your midwife for a follow-up visit in six weeks, or sooner if you experience symptoms of postpartum depression or have any concerns.
Perineum and Vaginal Stitches
The perineum may be tender whether or not stitches were needed. Ibuprofen, Advil, Motrin, or Tylenol can help with discomfort. A warm sitz bath or soaking can promote healing. You may add Epsom salts or sitz herbs. Witch hazel pads can reduce swelling. Stitches will dissolve within 1 to 5 weeks.
If you notice increased pain, redness, drainage, or a temperature above 100.4°F, contact your midwife immediately.
Bleeding
Bleeding may vary after delivery and can stop and start. If not nursing, your period may return in 4–6 weeks, though it may take up to 6 months. If nursing, it may not return until weaning.
Contact your midwife immediately if you are saturating a pad per hour.
Over the Counter Medications
Iron for anemia: Iron 325 mg once daily or Floradix Iron + Herbs (2 tsp twice daily for 4–6 weeks)
Stool softeners: Docusate Sodium (Colace) 100mg — 1–2 tablets daily as needed
Your midwife may prescribe stronger pain medication if needed.
It has been a pleasure and an honor to be involved in your care—we look forward to seeing you again soon!
Next Steps?
How to Become Our Patient
- Contact your insurance company through the phone number on your plan ID card to notify them of your new primary health care provider. In some cases, you may be able to make the change online. If you are in an HMO insurance plan, please contact your insurance company and request the primary care provider be change to one of the physicians listed on our website and associated with OnPoint Medical Group Tax ID 36-4778373
- Please contact your current primary care provider and fill out a medical records request form, noting records should be sent to: South Denver OB/GYN & Midwives. You can also request this form from us by emailing OMGSDOGInfo@AdventHealth.com
- If you are unable to bring paper or electronic copies of your medical records, please secure access through your patient portal. Your medical history is valuable to us, and we will work with you to get it uploaded into your new chart.
