If you’ve searched ‘what is postpartum?’, you’re not alone. The 4th trimester is Johannesburg mothers’ most overlooked need – yet PMBcare’s R700 support program prevents 83% of emergency readmissions.
What is Postpartum Care? Understanding the 4th Trimester
*(Directly answers top query with 30+ clicks)*
Postpartum care (the “4th trimester”) is the 6-week recovery period after birth where mothers need:
- Physical healing support (C-section scars, breastfeeding)
- Emotional health monitoring (baby blues vs PPD)
- Newborn care guidance (vitals checks, feeding)
Johannesburg Reality: 65% of mothers skip essential postpartum checkups due to hospital costs (R1,500-R5,000 per visit).
PMBcare’s 6-Week Postpartum Recovery Program
Week 1-2: Home Visits (3x Included)
Mother Checks:
- Wound healing assessment
- Post-birth bleeding monitoring
- Breastfeeding latch support
Baby Checks: - Weight gain tracking
- Jaundice screening
- Umbilical cord care
Week 3-4: Clinic Visits (2x at Fordsburg)
Mental Health Screening:
- Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) test
- Anxiety & stress counseling
Recovery Plan Adjustments: - Pelvic floor exercises
- Nutrition for milk production
Week 5-6: Final Wellness Assessment
Mother & Baby Report Card
Family Planning Consultation
Community Support Group Access
Cost Comparison: PMBcare vs. Johannesburg Hospitals
| Service | Private Hospitals | PMBcare | Savings |
|---|---|---|---|
| Per Home Visit | R1,200 – R1,800 | R0 (Included) | R1,800 |
| Clinic Checkup | R800 – R1,500 | R200 | R1,300 |
| Mental Health Screening | R2,500+ | R0 (Included) | R2,500 |
| TOTAL 6-Week Care | R5,000 – R8,300+ | R700 | Up to R7,600 |
Free Mental Health Screening Checklist
(New interactive element – printable/downloadable)
Monitor these PPD symptoms:
1. Mood Swings: Crying spells or irritability beyond 2 weeks
2. Appetite Changes: Not eating or overeating daily
3. Sleep Disturbances: Can’t sleep when baby sleeps
4. Withdrawal: Avoiding family/friends
5. Intrusive Thoughts: Fears about harming baby
3 Reasons Johannesburg Mothers Choose Us
- Fordsburg-Based Convenience
📍 81 Mint Road (Near Oriental Plaza) - Same Midwife Continuity
“Sister Dikeledi visited us weekly – no hospital rotation stress!” – Nomsa, Randburg - Emergency Support
24/7 WhatsApp support + hospital transfer coordination
How to Start Your Postpartum Journey
- Pre-Book During Pregnancy:
- Add to birth package: R700
- Post-Birth Enrollment:
- Pay per visit: R400/home check
- Medical Aid Claims:
- Billed directly to Discovery/Bonitas
Call 060 830 7432
WHO Postpartum Guidelines
