Z39: Postpartum care and examination

Z39.2: Routine postpartum follow-up

The puerperium is the first 6 to 8 weeks after childbirth. During this period the changes that occurred during pregnancy recede. This includes the muscles in the abdomen and pelvis readjusting. The womb also reduces in size during this period. Blood and wound fluid continue to flow out of the womb for some time. This is called lochia.

Medical monitoring during the puerperium includes checks on blood pressure, for example. How the womb adjusts after the birth and the appearance of the lochia are also monitored. There is also monitoring of any indications of possible inflammation or poor wound healing. If necessary, tests can be done on blood samples or urine samples.