There are two different types of postnatal check. Both are between 6-8 weeks after your baby is born. This is why they are often simply called ‘the 6 week checks’.
They are both done with your GP, and the GP will send you an appointment for them. However you can contact your GP with any concerns before this, or request further appointments.
The two 6 week checks are:
Both of these checks are important.
The two checks can be booked together in one extended booking slot, or can be booked in separate slots.
In a survey performed by the National Childbirth Trust, many women fed back that the maternal section of the check can feel rushed and less thorough when only one slot was booked. In response to these concerns the booking format has now been changed to two separate checks to allow enough time for both mum and baby.
It is highly encouraged that if you have any concerns, or simply wish to have the full opportunity to talk to your GP about your physical or mental health, to book these checks as separate slots.
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