Recognition and Management of postnatal problems Recognition and Management of Postnatal Problems PHYSICAL EXAMINATION. I. Introduction The postnatal period (puerperium) refers to the first six weeks after childbirth, a critical time for both mother and baby. During this phase, the mother undergoes physiological, emotional, and psychological adjustments. Midwives and nurses play a key role in conducting thorough physical examinations, identifying deviations from normal recovery, and managing postnatal complications to ensure