What is the term for the period immediately following childbirth?

The term that refers to the period immediately following childbirth is the postpartum period. This phase is critical as it encompasses the time right after delivery when the mother's body undergoes significant adjustments and healing after the effects of pregnancy and childbirth. During this time, which can last up to six weeks or longer, the mother experiences physical changes as the uterus contracts back to its normal size, and there can be emotional adjustments as well.

While the neonatal period refers specifically to the first 28 days of life for the newborn, it does not encompass the mother’s recovery process or her immediate post-birth experience. The preconception phase pertains to the planning and health status before conception occurs, not the time after childbirth. The lactation period focuses on breastfeeding and the production of milk, which can occur during the postpartum period but is a separate concept from the general recovery and adjustment phase after giving birth.