Discharge Guidelines

As you arrive home with a new baby, your physicians at Parkhill Clinic want you to be aware of the following discharge guidelines:

Diet:
You may resume a normal diet and please remember you will need extra calories if you are breastfeeding. Dieting is not recommended at this time. You should continue your prenatal vitamins until your six week checkup or while you are nursing.

Activity:
For the first week that you are home it is best to minimize your activity until you are more comfortable with your baby’s schedule.  In addition, it is wise to take the time to rest and enjoy your little one while establishing breastfeeding. After the first week you may begin driving, routine household duties, and shopping as you feel able. Please remember that family and friends are often eager to help with those things if you ask.

Breastfeeding:
We want you to be supported with breastfeeding and there are many options to help you. WRMC has a lactation help line at 479-463-1619. Our office is happy to answer questions about breastfeeding and to refer you to a lactation consultant. Remember cracking and bleeding nipples are NOT a normal part of breastfeeding. This usually indicates a poor latch or other issues that a lactation consultant can address.

Contraception:
Even if you have not resumed your period, never assume that you can not get pregnant. Remember to use a method of contraception such as condoms. At your 6 week check up we will discuss many options for contraception including options that are safe with breastfeeding.

Office Visit:
Plan to see your doctor for a follow up visit in six weeks or sooner if having signs of symptoms of post-partum depression or with any problem or concern.

Perineum and Vaginal Stitches:
Whether or not stitches are necessary, the perineum will probably be tender. Ibuprofen, Advil, Motrin or Tylenol may be used for any minor discomforts. A warm sitz bath or soaking in a tub of water can also provide comfort and promote healing. You may add Epsom salts or use sitz herbs in your bath. Witch hazel pads help reduce swelling. The stitches will dissolve on their own within 1 to 5 weeks.

If you notice an increase in pain, redness, drainage from the stitches, or temperature greater than 100.4F you should contact our office immediately.

Bleeding:
Your bleeding may persist variably following delivery. It may stop and start, or it may seem to linger for weeks. If you are not nursing, your period will resume in 4 to 6 weeks. In some instances, it may not resume for up to 6 months. If you are nursing, it may not return until you wean the baby.

You should not be alarmed at any bleeding pattern unless you are saturating a pad per hour (outright hemorrhage). If this occurs, you should contact our office immediately.

Your doctor may recommend the following medications:

• Iron for anemia: Iron 325 mg – 1 tablet by mouth once a day.
• Stool softeners for constipation: Docusate Sodium (Colace) 100mg – 1 to 2 tablets per day as needed.
• Your doctor may prescribe a stronger pain medication if you are experiencing more discomfort.

It has been a pleasure to be involved in your care, enjoy your new baby!!