Should postpartum women undergo gynecological examinations to check for cervical recovery?

Postpartum women need to undergo gynecological examinations to check for cervical recovery. Postpartum cervical recovery is an important indicator for evaluating reproductive system health, mainly examining cervical morphology, degree of closure, and the presence of inflammation or injury. The routine gynecological examination after 42 days postpartum usually includes cervical examination items, which can help timely detect problems such as poor cervical involution, infection, or laceration. After natural childbirth, there may be mild swelling or minor lacerations in the cervix, most of which repair on their own within 6 weeks. During the examination, the doctor will use a speculum to observe the color of the cervix, whether there is congestion or abnormal secretions, and if necessary, perform cervical cytology screening. Cesarean section mothers have a faster recovery of the cervix, but potential damage caused by intrauterine procedures still needs to be ruled out. If cervical polyps, erosions, or delayed healing are found, further evaluation may be necessary in conjunction with ultrasound. Mothers who experience prolonged labor, emergency delivery, or assisted delivery with instruments need to pay more attention to cervical recovery. This type of situation may lead to cervical tears deeper than the muscle layer, forming old lacerations. When estrogen levels are low during lactation, the speed of cervical epithelial repair may slow down, leading to physiological changes such as columnar epithelial eversion. During the period of postpartum immune decline, the risk of HPV infection increases, and cervical examination can simultaneously screen for precancerous lesions.

It is recommended that postpartum women complete gynecological examinations on time to avoid premature intercourse or interference with cervical self-cleaning function caused by the use of vaginal flushing agents. Pay attention to the cleanliness of the perineum in daily life, and seek timely follow-up if there is abnormal bleeding or increased secretion. Cervical examination during lactation has no adverse effects on both mother and baby, so there is no need to worry excessively.