6-Week Check-Up Blood Tests Every New Mum Should Request (and Why They Matter)

At around six weeks after giving birth, most mums will have a postnatal check-up for both themselves and their baby. This is the perfect opportunity to review your physical (and mental) recovery and ask for some key postpartum blood tests.

Pregnancy, birth, and breastfeeding place huge demands on your body — from nutrient depletion to hormonal shifts. Checking in with these basic tests can help catch any issues early and support a smoother, stronger recovery.

Standard Postnatal Blood Tests Your Doctor Might Offer:

1. Iron Studies (Iron, TIBC/Transferrin, Saturation, and Ferritin)

Iron deficiency and anaemia are very common after childbirth due to blood loss and increased iron needs. Low iron can cause fatigue, dizziness, mood swings, and hair loss — all things no new mum needs more of.

2. Full Blood Count (FBC or CBC)

A Full Blood Count checks red and white blood cells and platelets, helping identify anaemia, infection, or inflammation as your body heals.

3. Biochemistry Panel (U&E or CMP)

This test assesses kidney and liver function, electrolytes, and proteins — offering a broad look at how your organs are recovering postpartum.

4. HbA1c and Fasting Glucose

If you had gestational diabetes or are at higher risk of developing Type 2 diabetes, these tests are essential to ensure your blood sugar has returned to normal.

Additional Blood Tests Every New Mum Should Ask For:

1. Thyroid Function Test (TSH, Free T3, Free T4)

Hormonal fluctuations after pregnancy can trigger postpartum thyroiditis. If you notice fatigue, anxiety, mood swings, or unexpected weight changes, this test helps rule out thyroid imbalance. Additionally, with the demands of breastfeeding, as well as the lack of sleep, it is not abnormal for these markers to be at less than ideal. If this is the case, we know we need to supplement you more with the key thyroid nutrients such as iron, Vit A, zinc, selenium, Vit D and iodine. 

2. Vitamin D

Low vitamin D is widespread, especially in colder climates or for mums who spend most of their time indoors. Adequate levels support mood, hormones, energy, immunity, and bone health — for both you and your baby. For most babies, the only vitamin D they are receiving comes from their mother's milk or their formula. If mum is low, then the milk is likely to be lower as well. I think we can all agree that if bub is born in winter, the last thing you want is to run a greater risk of you or bub getting sick. 

3. Vitamin B12

Vital for energy production, methylation and mood regulation. Deficiency can contribute to exhaustion and brain fog (wait, but isn't that all new mums?!) Yes, but a new mum who is nutritionally replete is much less likely to be borne dead exhausted than one who isn't. 

Tests to Consider Based on Your Individual Situation:

1. Thyroid Antibodies (TPO and Thyroglobulin Antibodies)

If you or a family member have thyroid or autoimmune issues, these tests can identify autoimmune thyroid disease before it becomes symptomatic. Plus, as previously mentioned, early postpartum is a higher risk time for developing thyroiditis. If you have had any hint of raised antibodies in the past, or have never had them tested, ask for them now. 

2. Fasting Insulin

Paired with glucose, this test assesses insulin sensitivity — especially important for women with a history of gestational diabetes or PCOS.

3. Cortisol

Chronic stress and lack of sleep can disrupt adrenal function. A cortisol test (ideally morning sample) gives insight into your stress response and energy regulation.

4. Serum Zinc

Zinc supports healing, immunity, and hair growth. It’s often depleted through pregnancy and breastfeeding.

5. Prolactin

If you’re having trouble with milk supply or notice hormonal imbalances, prolactin levels can reveal how well your body is regulating lactation and recovery.

6. CRP or ESR (Inflammation Markers)

These tests detect underlying inflammation or infection that might explain ongoing fatigue or slow healing.

7. Lipid Profile (Cholesterol and Triglycerides)

Pregnancy temporarily raises cholesterol — useful to recheck after birth, particularly if you have a family history of heart disease.

Why These Blood Tests Matter for Postpartum Health:

The 6-week postpartum check-up isn’t just about your baby’s health — it’s about your recovery too. Many new mums experience fatigue, mood changes, or hair loss and assume it’s “just part of motherhood.” But sometimes, these symptoms signal nutrient deficiencies or hormonal imbalances that can be easily treated.

Getting these tests done provides reassurance, catches hidden issues early, and helps you feel your best, so that you don't end up down a big hole later that becomes very, very difficult to crawl out from.