Getting the health services you need: after childbirth

Updated: 30 September 2022

Manuela Leporesi
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Tips and information

  • Receive care during the first 24 hours after childbirth from a health worker, no matter where the birth takes place (e.g. facility or home)
  • See a trained health worker for at least three additional contacts in the first six weeks after childbirth
  • Know that you have the right to be treated with respect and dignity after childbirth
  • Know that a health worker should provide information on sexual health and family planning
  • Know about danger signs for the mother (such as pain in the stomach region or belly (abdomen), vaginal discharge) and where to seek care
  • Know about danger signs for the baby (such as the baby is not feeding well, has fast breathing or a high temperature) and where to seek care
  • Seek help if someone is hurting or threatening you or your baby, such as violence from a partner or ex-partner
  • Keep a record in the home of the mother and baby’s health and vaccines after childbirth
  • Know that these records should be provided by a health worker and taken to all health care visits
  • Ask a health worker how to avoid infectious diseases, such as HIV, malaria and tuberculosis 

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