A baby's arrival is exciting and joyous, and it can bring new challenges.
The first six weeks after childbirth are considered the early postpartum period. Our OB specialists are here to help if you need additional support during this time.
Our approach to postpartum care
After delivery, your care continues with support focused on your recovery and your baby’s early needs.
For vaginal delivery, expect to stay one to two days.
For a C-section delivery, expect to stay two to three days.
Before you’re discharged, your care team will help you meet milestones to keep your baby safe and healthy.
These milestones include:
If you need additional support, your care team can connect you with specialists in maternal mental health.
Breastfeeding support
As a Baby Friendly-designated hospital, we offer you the information, confidence and skills you need to breastfeed your baby.
Lactation support
Breastfeeding has many health benefits for your baby, but that doesn't mean it always comes easily. That's why we offer a lactation consultant to support new mothers as they learn how to breastfeed.
You may request a visit with our lactation consultant during your stay, or make an appointment later for such concerns as:
- Latching difficulties
- Slow or no weight gain
- Mastitis/plugged ducts
- Sore nipples
- Engorgement
- Returning to work
- Pumping and storage
- Weaning
Attend one of our classes on breastfeeding
Breast pump rental
Patients and community members can rent hospital-grade breast pumps and buy breastfeeding supplies. Ask your care team about these services.
[NEED MORE INFO]
UC Health Milk Bank
The University of California Health system provides a milk bank for mothers and their newborns.
Learn more by visiting the UC Milk Bank website or call 858-249-MILK (6455)
Maternal mental health support
Postpartum recovery includes emotional well-being. Your care team collaborates with the Susan Samueli Integrative Health Institute to provide inpatient holistic health services.
These services may include:
If you experience mood changes, anxiety or difficulty adjusting after delivery, your care team can connect you with maternal mental health specialists in the UCI Health psychiatry department who provide compassionate, evidence-based support.
[NEED MORE INFO]
Postpartum pelvic health
Your recovery after childbirth includes healing and strengthening the muscles that support your bladder, uterus and bowel — known as the pelvic floor.
Pregnancy and delivery place significant strain on these muscles, especially after vaginal birth or prolonged labor. Some patients may notice changes such as pelvic pressure, urinary leakage or discomfort during recovery.
UCI Health offers specialized care through:
Early support and evaluation can help prevent long-term complications and improve recovery. These specialists focus on diagnosing and treating pelvic floor conditions to support long-term recovery and quality of life.
Contact your care team if symptoms such as leakage, pelvic pressure or pain continue beyond the six-week postpartum recovery period.
Infant car seat safety
One of your first responsibilities after your baby leaves the hospital is to make sure he or she is secured safely in your car, not only for the ride home, but all future care trips.
California law
California law says all children under 8 must be properly buckled into a car seat or booster in the back seat. If you are caught with anyone in the car not properly secured, the parents or driver can be fined or get a point on their driving record.
Learn how to install and use the safety seat before you have your baby. If installed correctly, it will be easy to use every time your child is in the car. Be sure to keep your instruction manual in the car.
Child safety seat resources
Why choose UCI Health for postpartum care?
Supporting your emotional well-being
Having a baby can bring emotional changes and new challenges.
We monitor both your physical and emotional health and can connect you with maternal mental health specialists.
If you experience signs and symptoms of postpartum depression or anxiety such as feeling sad or hopeless, frequent crying, or you experience guilt, overwhelm or worry, please reach out to your care team.
Baby-Friendly designation
We are designated as a Baby-Friendly hospital, meaning that we uphold the highest standards of infant care by promoting and supporting breastfeeding.
Emergency help available 24/7
For a mental health emergency, call 988 or go to the nearest emergency room. 988 is the national suicide and crisis hotline.
