Table 1.

WHO recommendations on postnatal care of mother and newborn

	Mother	Baby
In first 24 h if delivered in a facility	Regular assessment of vaginal bleeding, uterine contraction, fundal height, temperature, pulse. Blood pressure shortly after birth and within 6 h. Urine void documented within 6 h	A full clinical examination around 1 h after birth and before discharge
At subsequent visits, enquire	General well-being, emotional well-being, family support, resumption of sexual intercourse, and possible dyspareunia
At subsequent visits, assess and refer if needed	Micturition and urinary incontinence, bowel function, healing of any perineal wound, headache, fatigue, back pain, perineal pain and perineal hygiene, breast pain, uterine tenderness and lochia, breastfeeding progress	Stopped feeding well, history of convulsions, fast breathing, severe chest in-drawing, no spontaneous movement, fever, low body temperature, jaundice in first 24 h
	Observe for signs or risk of domestic abuse	Identify low birth weight and provide special care
At subsequent visits, counsel	Danger signs and care seeking, nutrition, hygiene, family planning, safe sex, use of treated bednets for mother and baby (malaria areas), gentle exercise, rest	Danger signs and care seeking, exclusive breastfeeding, cord care, thermal care, immunization, play

Adapted from Ref. (6).