5 Blood Tests every new mother needs postpartum.

Postnatal testing is helpful in addressing any health concerns post pregnancy/birth and to prevent any depletion in the postpartum period.

Every mother’s pregnancy, birth then postpartum journey is different and therefore each woman may need her own unique combination of tests.

Below are five of the most common tests I recommend as a starting base line :

Iron studies

Iron deficiency in postpartum is common due to low levels in pregnancy and then blood loss due to the childbirth journey. Symptoms of low iron include fatigue, dizziness, brain fog, poor concentration, and shortness of breath.

Full blood count

Measures red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. It’s a really important test for understanding if oxygen delivery to the cells is impaired.

Full thyroid function

To accurately understand what is going on at the level of the thyroid gland and how it is influencing metabolism, the thyroid hormones (free T4 + free T3) must also be measured and interpreted alongside TSH. Thyroid antibodies is also recommended to ensure no autoimmune component due to enormous changes during pregnancy to support both mum and baby. Then, again in postpartum with sleep deprivation and adjusting to baby’s needs.

Vitamin D

The importance of vitamin D for new mothers has a role in supporting the nervous system, mood regulation, blood sugar regulation, thyroid function, female hormone balance, immune function. For breastfeeding mothers, the amount of vitamin D in breastmilk is influenced by maternal intake.

Vitamin B12

Relevant for low energy, mental health and mood, cognition, or if any abnormalities are seen on the full blood count indicate B12 deficiency.

To assess your postpartum health, I recommend a check-up around the 6–12-week postpartum stage. Testing is a big part of my clinical practice and I’m well equipped to order and to interpret your blood test results to help you get answers and prevent postpartum depletion.