The 6 to 8 week check: what happens for your baby and for you

Around 6 to 8 weeks after the birth, your baby has a check with the GP, and you’re offered one too. They’re two separate checks, often at the same visit.

Your baby’s check

The NHS says your baby’s second newborn physical examination happens when they’re between 6 and 8 weeks old, and the GP offers it. It follows the first check done within 72 hours of birth. See newborn checks.

The NHS says the physical examination looks at your baby’s general health and in particular their eyes, heart and pulse, hips and, for boys, whether the testicles have come down. Results are recorded in the red book. The check is recommended for all babies, but it’s your choice.

This is a good time to raise anything that’s worrying you about your baby, such as feeding, sleeping or crying. The GP can’t answer questions they aren’t asked, so bring your questions with you.

Your own check

The NHS says your GP surgery should offer you a postnatal check, usually 6 to 8 weeks after the birth. You can also ask for one yourself, especially if you have concerns. It can be done before, after or separately from your baby’s check.

The NHS lists what you can expect:

Mood. You’ll be asked how you’re feeling, as part of a general discussion about your mental health and wellbeing.
Bleeding. You’ll be asked about vaginal discharge and whether you’ve had a period since the birth.
Stitches. If you had an episiotomy or caesarean, you may be offered an examination to see if your stitches have healed.
Bladder, bowel and pain. The NHS asks you to report any bladder or bowel control problems and pain around the perineum.
Contraception. You’ll be asked about contraception.
Blood pressure. It will be checked if you had problems during pregnancy or just after the birth.
Weight. You may be weighed, and offered advice on healthy eating and activity if that’s relevant. You can ask why.
Other things to raise. Cervical screening, if it was due, is rescheduled for 12 weeks after the birth. You can also talk about feeding and vitamin D, and tell the doctor if sex is painful.

What is included varies by area.

If you aren’t sure whether you’ve had your recommended adult vaccines, such as MMR, tell your doctor.

Getting the most from it

Make a list of questions beforehand, because it’s easy to forget in the room.
If you’re struggling with how you feel, say so. You don’t have to struggle alone or put on a brave face, and you don’t have to wait for the check to get help.
If you haven’t been offered a check by about 8 weeks, ring the surgery and ask. You can request an appointment yourself.

Your baby’s first jabs

The NHS says babies can’t have their first 6-in-1 vaccine until they’re 8 weeks old. The protection you passed on during pregnancy covers them until then. See vaccines in pregnancy.

Questions people ask

Do I have to go to both checks?

Both are offered, and it’s your choice. The checks can be done at the same visit or separately.

Will I have an internal examination?

The NHS says you may be offered an examination of your stitches if you had an episiotomy or caesarean. Ask what the check will include before you go.

What if I feel low or anxious?

Tell the GP at the check. You can also contact your GP or health visitor sooner than that.

Can I ask for my check if it hasn’t been offered?

Yes. The NHS says you can request one yourself.