The postdelivery (postpartum) period is the 6 to 8 weeks after delivery of a baby, when the mother's body returns to its prepregnancy state.

After delivery, the mother can expect to have some symptoms, but they are usually mild and temporary. Complications are rare. Nonetheless, the doctor, hospital staff members, or health care plan usually sets up a home visit or close follow-up program. The most common complications are excessive bleeding (postpartum hemorrhage (see Labor and Delivery Complications: Uterine Bleeding); bladder, kidney, or breast infections; problems with breastfeeding (see Newborns and Infants: Breastfeeding); and depression. Postpartum hemorrhage may occur soon after delivery but may occur as late as 1 month afterward.

Last full review/revision February 2003