Week 6 postpartum
In short: what happens in week 6 postpartum?
In week 6 postpartum you reach the final week of the postpartum period. Your womb returns to its pre-pregnancy size (about 60–80 g) and bleeding stops. At the 6-week check, your blood pressure, stitch or wound healing, pelvic floor, mood, feeding and contraception are reviewed. In many cultures, day 40 traditionally marks the end of this period.
Week 6 postpartum – animated guide
Week 6 (days {from}–{to}): the postpartum dial, womb, postnatal bleeding and your baby’s development (illustrative animation).
Mum
Most mothers feel physically recovered, although full healing and regaining strength can take months. If urine leakage or painful sex continues, physiotherapy helps.
Your baby today
Your baby is 6 weeks old: social smiles become clearer and head control improves. The 2-month vaccinations are coming up.
Feeding and nutrition
There may be another growth spurt around week 6. If you are planning to go back to work, you can start an expressing routine now.
Emotions and rest
Postnatal depression can start at any time in the first year; keep listening to your feelings after day 40 too.
Check-ups
Your 6-week (day 40–42) postnatal check; your baby’s 2-month check and vaccinations.
Tips for today
- Take a list of questions to your check
- Get your doctor’s go-ahead before using a sauna or steam room
- Keep up your pelvic floor exercises
- Make room for yourself in your new routine
When to seek medical help
See your doctor about bleeding that continues after day 40, painful sex, leaking urine or wind, persistent unhappiness or extreme tiredness.
Postpartum week by week
Bleeding, Colostrum and Milk
Womb Shrinking, Cord Falling Off
Growth Spurt and Emotional Health
Bleeding Easing, First Month
Exercise, Sex and Contraception
The 6-Week Check and Day 40
Frequently asked questions
What happens at the 6-week postnatal check?
Your blood pressure and weight are checked; your stitches or wound, womb, pelvic floor, breasts and mood are assessed, and contraception is discussed.
Why is 40 days after birth significant?
In many cultures, including Turkish, Middle Eastern and Latin American traditions, the end of the first 40 days after birth is marked as the close of the lying-in period; medically, it coincides with the end of the postpartum period (6 weeks).
Can I use a sauna or steam room after 40 days?
Yes, once the bleeding has stopped, your stitches or wound have healed and your doctor agrees; taking your baby into a hot steam room or sauna is not recommended.
Does everything go back to normal after the postpartum period?
Most changes settle within 6 weeks; things like hair loss, your pelvic floor and weight may take a few more months.
Postnatal care at SoftCare Clinic
Book an appointment with our specialist doctors for a postnatal check, breastfeeding problems, a stitch or wound check, or support with postnatal depression.
The information on this page is general guidance for an uncomplicated postpartum period and does not replace a medical examination. Heavy bleeding, fever, breathlessness, chest pain, or thoughts of harming yourself or your baby are emergencies: call your local emergency number (999 / 911 / 112).
Medical content editor: Op. Dr. Şükrü Sanus