(Published September 2006)

Postpartum Counseling Checklist: Assessment and Screening

Physical exam

• Weight
• Height
• Body mass index (BMI; compare with pre-pregnancy)
• Lab work
• Pelvic exam (perineal healing/vaginal discharge/pelvic support)
• Breast exam
• Abdominal exam (diastasis recti)

Diet, nutrition, and exercise

• Eating patterns, nutrition review
• Use of calcium supplement
• Continuing use/non-use of prenatal vitamin and iron supplements
• Cultural conditions surrounding diet
• Status of breastfeeding
• Weight loss concerns and expectations
• Alcohol consumption
• Substance abuse
• Constipation
• Exercise level (current, pre-pregnancy)
• Exercises for pelvic and abdominal muscles
• Readiness to return to work

Postpartum Mental Health

• Postpartum Depression Screening Scale (PDSS)
• Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS)
• Postpartum Depression Predictors Inventory (PDPI)
• Sleeping pattern; level of fatigue
• Resources and support
• Relationship with spouse/partner
• Sibling adjustment

Sexuality and contraception

• Sexual relations
• Incontinence
• Contraceptive options

Download a PDF of the Postpartum Counseling Checklist: Assessment and Screening checklist