Family Planning
Weeks 1–12
(1st Trimester)
Weeks 13–27
(2nd Trimester)
Weeks 28–40
(3rd Trimester)
Getting Ready to Deliver
Postpartum

Postpartum

Life after birth can feel joyful, overwhelming and everything in between. Your body is healing, and you’re adjusting to caring for a newborn. We’re here to help you recover and feel supported during this important time.

On this page you'll find:

After Giving Birth (Postpartum)

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What to Expect

  • Bleeding, cramping and soreness as your body heals

  • Sleep changes as you adjust to your baby’s schedule

  • A mix of emotions—joy, stress and sometimes anxiety

Common Concern: Mood Changes

Feeling sad, worried or overwhelmed can be common after birth. If these feelings do not get better or make daily life hard, talk to your doctor so you can get support.

Recommended Steps:

  • Schedule a postpartum checkup with your doctor and a visit for your baby within six weeks.

  • Ask for help with household tasks and baby care from family, friends or local support groups.

  • If you had a C-section, follow your doctor’s wound care instructions.

  • Stay hydrated and eat well—it helps with recovery and breastfeeding.

  • Spend time bonding with your baby through skin-to-skin contact.

Ask your doctor these questions during the weeks after birth as your body heals and you adjust to caring for your baby. They explain recovery, mental health and where to find support.

How is my recovery going?

What should I expect with bleeding and discharge after birth?

Can you explain what is normal and what is a warning sign after birth?

What follow-up visits or screening tests do I need?

When can I go back to normal activities, including exercise and sex?

Are there any nutrition tips that can help me heal?

How can I manage breastfeeding challenges?

What common postpartum issues might I have?

How can I manage pain, swelling or hemorrhoids after birth?

What are the signs of postpartum depression or anxiety?

What should I do if I feel sad, anxious or overwhelmed?

What should I know about preventing pregnancy after birth?

What support groups or resources are available for new mothers?

If I do not feel heard, who else can I talk to for help or support?

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Postpartum Check In: Safe Sleep for Your Baby

Safe sleep helps lower the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). Put your baby to sleep on their back, on a firm surface, with no blankets, pillows or toys in the sleep area. If you need help finding a safe sleep space, programs like Cribs for Kids can help connect families to cribs and other safe options.

Behavioral Health Support

Postpartum depression and anxiety are common. Symptoms can feel like normal stress, so they’re often missed. If you feel sad, anxious or overwhelmed, reach out for help right away.

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Carelon provides mental health services. Visit their page or call 800-888-1965 for any benefit questions or help finding a mental health provider.

Extra Help for Your Journey

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Get a $125 Gift Card

As a new parent, you will get a $125 gift card to buy baby health and safety items like car seats, strollers, baby sleep clothes and more.

After your baby is born, the gift card will be mailed to you. Restrictions may apply.

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Getting Medicaid Coverage for Your Newborn

Don’t forget to enroll your baby in Medicaid. You can sign up online or call Maryland Health Connection.

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Free Rides to Your Appointments

Needing a ride should not keep you from your appointments. With SafeRide, you get 6 free one-way rides for non-emergency medical visits, like doctor appointments or pharmacy trips. After your baby is enrolled in Medicaid, they will also get 6 free one-way rides to help get to their care.

Call SafeRide at 833-509-0250 to book a ride today.

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Need More Information?

Review the CareFirst CHPMD Member Handbook (PDF) for a complete outline of services and benefits. English | Spanish

Review the CareFirst CHPMD Benefit Guide (PDF) for more benefit information. English | Spanish

We’re here to support you and keep you informed about all your benefits as a CareFirst CHPMD member. If you have questions or need more information, call Member Services at 410-779-9369 or 800-730-8530 (TTY: 711), Monday–Friday, 8 a.m.–5 p.m. ET.