The Postpartum Gap: Why the Time Between Your Hospital Visit and OB Office Appointment Is So Important
Several months ago I was asked by a provider, "Why do you think so many women fail to present for their postpartum follow-up visits?" At that time, my response was a lack of education about its importance and distrust of the healthcare system. I have thought about that question several times since. I have concluded that these are not likely the only reasons, but important to point out.
Some women may feel that they are fine, so they don't need to make it to the appointment, but may not realize that some postpartum concerns aren't always obvious. Let’s talk about what’s typically addressed during these visits:
Assessing vital signs
Mental health assessment
Physical recovery
Bladder and bowel function
Sleep and fatigue
Support systems
Contraception
Sexual health
These are all things that can seem to be fine to the birthing mother and her loved ones, but could be clinically significant to her provider, leading to quicker diagnosis and treatment.
One topic I frequently made time to discuss when I was providing postpartum clinical care was sexual health. For breastfeeding moms, decreased estrogen can contribute to vaginal dryness. Many women were thankful that I initiated the conversation and offered ways to help.
Another topic is that of blood pressure. Many women may complain of a mild headache, brushing it off, only to find out at the visit their blood pressure is elevated. These are examples of symptoms that may seem minor but can be important to discuss with your healthcare provider.
These conversations aren't just nice to have — the statistics show why they matter.
Per the SC Department of Public Health's 2026 SCMMMRC Legislative Brief, South Carolina ranks 8th highest for maternal mortality in the US. The report also found that the 90% of pregnancy-related deaths were considered preventable. The top 3 leading causes of maternal deaths from 2022 to 2023 in SC were:
Hemorrhage
Mental Health Conditions/Substance Use Disorder (SUD)
Cardiomyopathy/Infection (tied)
Complications related to pregnancy can occur up to one year after delivery. That’s why continuing to care for your health and following your healthcare provider’s recommendations—including attending scheduled appointments—is so important. And if something doesn’t feel right, trust your instincts, speak up, and advocate for yourself.
But a lot can happen between leaving the hospital and walking into your provider's office for that postpartum visit. Questions come up. Symptoms can change. Sometimes you're simply unsure whether something you're experiencing is worth mentioning.
That's where Mary & Elizabeth can help stand in the gap—supporting you between visits, helping you recognize when something may need attention, and helping you prepare to communicate your concerns to your healthcare team.
Sources:
South Carolina Department of Public Health. (2026). SCMMMRC Legislative Brief. South Carolina Maternal Morbidity and Mortality Review Committee — 2026 Legislative Brief
Further Reading:
Pregnancy and Postpartum Health | South Carolina Department of Public Health
Disclaimer: This content is for general educational and informational purposes only and is not medical or legal advice. Mary & Elizabeth Maternal Advocacy, LLC does not diagnose, prescribe, or provide medical treatment, and reading this content does not create a healthcare provider–patient relationship. Every pregnancy and postpartum experience is different, so talk with your own healthcare provider about your symptoms, questions, and care decisions. Information was accurate to the best of our knowledge when published, but guidelines and laws can change. If you or your baby may be having a medical emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department. If you are having thoughts of harming yourself or your baby, call 911 or text 988.
