Top 10 Diagnostic Tests Every New Mother Should Consider – For Body, Mind, and Heart
This Mother's Day, prioritize you. Let self-care begin with these simple yet crucial health checks
Becoming a mother is one of the most transformative experiences in a woman's life. Along with joy, love, and the wonder of new life, it brings a range of physical, hormonal, and emotional changes that demand attention and care. While new moms are often laser-focused on their baby's well-being, their own health tends to take a backseat. However, early postpartum health monitoring is vital—especially as the body begins to recover and adjust after the intensity of childbirth.
According to Dr. Mayanka Lodha Seth, Chief Pathologist, Redcliffe Labs, 'New mothers go through several physiological changes, and diagnostic tests offer valuable insight into how the body is coping post-delivery. They help detect issues like anemia, thyroid imbalances, and nutritional deficiencies early—ensuring smoother recovery."
Simultaneously, cardiovascular health is another area that requires attention. Dr. Niranjan Hiremath, Senior Consultant, Cardiovascular and Aortic Surgeon and Surgical Lead, Indraprastha Apollo Hospital, adds, 'Recent studies indicate that new mothers are at a higher risk of heart-related conditions postpartum due to stress, sleep deprivation, hormonal changes, and complications like gestational diabetes or hypertension."
As we celebrate motherhood this month, here's a comprehensive guide to the top 10 diagnostic tests—five general and five heart-related—that every new mother should consider for a healthy transition into this new phase of life.
1. Complete Blood Count (CBC)
A Must for Monitoring Overall Health
Dr. Mayanka Lodha Seth explains, 'A CBC checks red and white blood cells, hemoglobin levels, and platelets, helping identify anemia, infections, or weakened immunity." Anemia, common post-delivery due to blood loss, can lead to fatigue and weakness if not managed with supplements or dietary changes.
'Iron levels often drop after childbirth, especially if there's been significant blood loss," notes Dr. Seth. Low iron can cause chronic fatigue, dizziness, and compromised immunity. Including iron-rich foods like spinach and lentils, or prescribed supplements, can aid recovery.
Essential After Gestational Diabetes
If you had gestational diabetes during pregnancy, it's crucial to check your sugar levels 6–12 weeks after birth. 'High glucose levels post-delivery could indicate the onset of type 2 diabetes," warns Dr. Seth. Symptoms like frequent urination, excessive thirst, or weight loss shouldn't be ignored.
4. Thyroid Function Test
Detecting Hormonal Imbalances
Postpartum thyroid dysfunction is common and often missed. Dr. Seth explains, 'Hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism can lead to mood swings, fatigue, and hair loss. A simple TSH test can help identify the issue early."
5. Liver and Kidney Function Tests (LFT & KFT)
Pregnancy complications like preeclampsia or HELLP syndrome can affect liver and kidney health. 'It's vital to assess organ function postpartum to catch any residual damage or dysfunction," says Dr. Seth. These tests help ensure no lingering complications post-childbirth.
6. Blood Pressure Monitoring
'High BP may persist or emerge after delivery, especially if it was elevated during pregnancy," says Dr. Niranjan Hiremath. Regular BP checks can help manage postpartum hypertension and prevent strokes or heart failure.
7. Electrocardiogram (ECG)
Quick and Painless Heart Rhythm Assessment
'An ECG can pick up irregular heart rhythms, which are more common postpartum due to hormonal shifts and stress," adds Dr. Hiremath. If you feel palpitations, dizziness, or breathlessness, don't delay this simple test.
8. Lipid Profile
Cholesterol levels often spike during and after pregnancy. 'A lipid profile measures LDL (bad cholesterol) and HDL (good cholesterol), helping gauge long-term cardiovascular risk," says Dr. Hiremath.
9. Blood Sugar Test (Follow-Up for Heart Health)
Even if your blood sugar was normal at birth, gestational diabetes increases long-term heart disease risk. 'Postpartum glucose monitoring is non-negotiable for mothers with a GDM history," Dr. Hiremath emphasizes.
10. Echocardiogram
For Deeper Insight into Heart Function
If you had preeclampsia or unexplained symptoms like swelling, fatigue, or chest discomfort, an echocardiogram is advised. 'This imaging test helps assess how well your heart is functioning after delivery," explains Dr. Hiremath.
Bonus Tests to Consider:
In addition to the top ten, Dr. Seth recommends the following, based on individual needs:
ESR (Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate) – Detects inflammation
Vitamin D & B12 – For bone and neurological health
Lipid Profile – Beyond heart health, it also impacts metabolism
Calcium Test – Important post-lactation and for bone recovery
LH & FSH Hormonal Panel – To assess reproductive hormone levels
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Being a mother doesn't mean ignoring your own health. It means caring for yourself so you can care for your child even better. Regular check-ups and diagnostic tests are not just precautionary—they're empowering.
So this Mother's Day, prioritize you. Let self-care begin with these simple yet crucial health checks. As both doctors affirm, 'Your body has done something miraculous—now it deserves the care to heal, renew, and thrive."
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First Published:
May 10, 2025, 19:59 IST
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