Most women have healthy pregnancies and experience normal births. The care received during the postnatal period can, however, enhance this experience and help detect any complications that may develop post delivery. The postnatal period is the time during which the body recovers from the child birth experience. Generally, it begins after delivery and extends about six weeks afterward, as the body gradually returns to its pre-pregnancy state. Postnatal home visiting services are provided for mother and child during the first ten days post-delivery, for all public clients. For more information on Postnatal Home Visiting Services, click here.

At Postnatal Clinics, women are interviewed and examined to ensure that they are recovering properly. Additionally, the health of their baby is also assessed. As the body regains its former condition some changes will be noticed:

Physical Changes

Involution of the Uterus - This is the process of the uterus contracting to a non-pregnant size, although it will never return completely to its former, pre-pregnancy size.

Vaginal discharge - Lochia, the vaginal discharge, will be experienced over the next four to six weeks. It is the debris that the uterus sheds after delivery. The discharge will change from red to pinkish to yellow to white and will increase with activity or breast feeding.

Hormonal changes - Some women may experience mood fluctuations from sadness to deep depression as adjustments are made to motherhood.

Any member of the public can access these.  

1. Receive appointment from maternity ward (or contact Community Health Clinic to receive appointment).
2. Attend postnatal clinic.
3. Follow recommendation provided by health physician.
4. Return for test results.
5. Receive appointment for family planning clinic.

This may vary by facility.

This may vary by facility.

There are no fees associated with this service.

Maternal and Child Health Unit
The Department of Public Health
Poncianna Hill Building, Meeting Street
P. O. Box N-3730
Nassau, N.P.
The Bahamas
Tel. (242) 502-4835
Fax. (242) 502-4874
Opening hours: 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, Monday to Friday, except public holidays.