Postpartum Care Center

Everyday healthy habits after giving birth

Many moms know how important it is to live a healthy lifestyle while they are pregnant. But, it’s just as important to stay healthy after you give birth. Giving birth can be very hard on your body and health. It’s important to heal correctly. You need to take care of you so you can take care of your baby.

Make sure to follow-up with your doctor early after your baby is born. And try some of these health habits too that can help you stay well.

Follow your OB doctor’s instructions.

Your doctor will give you directions about how to heal fully after your baby’s birth. Follow the instructions and be sure to call your doctor with any questions. If your doctor isn’t available, you can call the 24/7 Nurse Call Line with your questions at 1-888-632-0009.

Keep notes about your health.

If you have an odd pain or feel off, take notes about how you feel. If the problem keeps up, call your doctor and describe how you’ve felt.

Plan for future pregnancies.

Your doctor may advise  you to wait before trying for another baby. This will give your body time to heal so it can support another baby.

Schedule an appointment with your baby’s primary care provider (PCP).

Just like mom, your baby will need follow-up appointments, too. Introduce your little one to their new PCP right away. The doctor will keep your baby up-to-date with their immunizations (booster shots) and other important tests. This will help your baby grow up healthy and strong.

Schedule an appointment with the Women, Infants, Children (WIC) nutrition program.

The WIC program can help you get the right foods for you and your baby. The program will teach you how and why to eat healthy. You may qualify for special food packages that meet you and your baby’s nutritional needs. For more information, call 1-800-251-2229.

Other resources

  • Programs for moms — AmeriHealth Caritas Louisiana offers programs designed especially for women and new moms.
  • Find a Provider — Find a provider who can help you be a healthy and happy mom.
  • Questions for your doctor  — It's hard to know what to ask. Find out what you need to know.
  • Everyday healthy habits — Here's what you can do to help keep healthy after you give birth.