Abstract
Objective To evaluate whether scheduling a 2- to 3-week versus 6-week postpartum visit results
in higher visit attendance.
Study Design We conducted a secondary analysis of a quasi-experimental before–after study to compare
postpartum visit attendance after changing routine scheduling of visits from 6 weeks
to 2 to 3 weeks after delivery. Secondary outcomes include patient satisfaction and
breastfeeding continuation at 3 and 6 months postpartum. We collected postpartum visit
information through a chart review and conducted telephonic interviews at 3 and 6
months postpartum to assess satisfaction with visit timing and breastfeeding status.
We performed multivariable analyses to assess predictors of visit attendance.
Results Women scheduled at 2 to 3 weeks postpartum demonstrated higher visit attendance (90.2%;
95% confidence interval [CI]: 86.6–93.9%) compared with 6 weeks (81.6%; 95% CI: 76.3–86.2%;
p < 0.01). Predictors for visit attendance include postpartum visit timing, age, education,
parity, prior miscarriage, and high-risk index pregnancy in multivariate analysis.
Scheduling at 2 to 3 weeks postpartum increased visit completion in women who were
younger and had lower educational attainment, high-risk index pregnancy, and no prior
miscarriages. We found no differences in patient satisfaction or breastfeeding continuation
at 3 and 6 months postpartum related to postpartum visit timing.
Conclusion Scheduling a 2- to 3-week postpartum visit is associated with higher attendance.
Keywords
postpartum visit - breastfeeding - patient satisfaction - maternal health
