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Giving birth is a big deal. The weeks and months after delivery bring major physical, emotional, and hormonal shifts, but postpartum care often gets treated like an afterthought. At Balance Medical in Bismarck, ND, we take your recovery seriously. Whether things went smoothly or you faced complications, you deserve real follow-up and support.

We help you heal, adjust, and feel like yourself again, at a pace that works for your body and your life.

What Is Postpartum Care?

Postpartum care is the medical support you receive after delivery. Your first visit usually happens within 2 to 6 weeks after birth, but that’s just the starting point. These appointments are a space to talk through how you’re feeling, check your physical recovery, and get guidance on everything from bleeding and sleep to mood changes and intimacy.

You don’t need to wait for your 6-week checkup if something feels off. We’re always happy to see you sooner.

What’s Typically Included

Every postpartum journey is different, but we commonly address:

Physical Recovery
We’ll assess healing after vaginal or cesarean birth, check any stitches or incisions, monitor bleeding and uterine recovery, and make sure your body is healing as expected.

Feeding Support
Whether you’re nursing, pumping, formula feeding, or doing a mix, we can help with latching pain, milk supply, clogged ducts, or simply making a feeding plan that works for you.

Mood and Mental Health Check-Ins
Postpartum depression, anxiety, and rage are more common than most people realize. We ask real questions and take what you share seriously. If you’re not feeling like yourself, we’ll help.

Contraception Counseling
You can get pregnant again before your period returns. If you’re not ready, we’ll walk you through your birth control options and timing.

Pelvic Floor and Intimacy Concerns
Pain, leaking, pressure, and fear about returning to sex are normal to talk about. We’ll help you figure out what’s going on and recommend pelvic floor therapy if needed.

Sleep, Energy, and Identity Changes
You’re adjusting to a completely new rhythm. We’ll talk through fatigue, identity shifts, and what’s normal versus what’s worth checking in on further.

It’s Not Just a One-and-Done Visit

Too often, postpartum care gets reduced to a 15-minute appointment and a pat on the back. That’s not good enough. At Balance, we view postpartum as an ongoing process, not a single milestone. If you need multiple visits, mental health follow-ups, or extra time to talk, we’ll make it happen.

We also know it’s not always easy to make time for yourself. If you need to bring your baby, we’re happy to welcome them, too.

Our Testimonials

“Absolutely love this place. First clinic that actually addresses my skin issues and comes up with a treatment plan that has literally worked miracles. My skin hasn't looked this good since I was 12! Thank you so much ladies!”

“Dr. Rhonda is the best! Comfortable, confident care is not just a tagline. She is personable, knowledgeable, and thorough. I would gladly recommend Balance Medical to anyone!”

Read more testimonials

When to Schedule

Your postpartum journey starts the day you deliver. We typically see you around 2 to 6 weeks after birth, depending on your needs and delivery type. You can call sooner if you’re experiencing unusual bleeding, pain, mood swings, or anything else that feels concerning.

Real Care for the Fourth Trimester

We don’t expect perfection, and we don’t rush you through. Whether you’re healing well or having a tough time, we’re here to walk alongside you as your body and life shift into this new chapter.

Call us or book online to schedule your postpartum visit. You don’t have to go through this alone.

Frequently Asked Questions About Postpartum Care

When should I come in for a postpartum checkup?

Most women are seen between 2 to 6 weeks after birth, but we can schedule sooner if you're struggling with pain, emotions, feeding, or recovery.

What if I had a C-section or tearing during delivery?

We'll check your incision or stitches, monitor healing, and let you know if anything needs additional care or follow-up.

Is it normal to feel overwhelmed or sad after giving birth?

Yes. Emotional ups and downs are common, but if you’re feeling anxious, angry, detached, or persistently low, that may be postpartum depression or anxiety. We can help you figure out what’s going on and connect you with support.

Can I talk about sex, birth control, or pelvic pain?

Absolutely. This is a safe space to bring up anything…even the awkward stuff ud83dude09. We’ll walk you through options and recovery timelines that fit your needs.

Do I need to come back if everything feels fine?

Yes. Even if you’re feeling good, it’s still important to check in and make sure everything’s healing properly, your mood is stable, and you’re set up with any resources you might need.

Founder & Medical Director at 

Dr. Rhonda Schafer-McLean is a board-certified OB/GYN with more than 15 years of experience caring for women throughout North Dakota. As the founder of Balance Medical and Bal Med Skin, she combines advanced medical expertise with a genuine, down-to-earth approach. Whether she’s performing surgery or helping someone feel more confident in their skin, Dr. Rhonda believes every woman deserves care that’s personal, approachable, and tailored to her life.