A few days after your baby’s birth, your breasts will swell with milk. They are likely to feel tender and heavy. This is normal. To help prevent breast soreness and control irritation, follow these tips.

Sigmoidoscopy is a procedure used to view the lower colon and rectum. This test can help find the source of belly pain, rectal bleeding, and changes in bowel habits. Sigmoidoscopy is also used as part of the screening for colorectal cancer.

Lower GI endoscopy allows your healthcare provider to view your lower gastrointestinal (GI) tract.

Endometrial biopsy is a procedure used to study the lining of the uterus. It is usually done in your health care provider's office.

If your breasts ever feel lumpy, sore, or tender, you may have fibrocystic breasts. This is a very common condition. Here's what you need to know about it.

Colonoscopy is used to view the inside of your lower digestive tract (colon and rectum). It can help screen for colon cancer and can help find the source of abdominal pain, bleeding, and changes in bowel habits.

Proper care can help your baby's umbilical cord heal. Do not pull or pick at the cord. It should fall off on its own within 2 weeks after the birth. Use the steps below as a guide.

A rectal temperature is taken by placing a thermometer in your baby's bottom. This method provides the most accurate reading. Talk with your baby's healthcare provider before taking your baby's temperature this way. It should be done only when advised by your baby's healthcare provider.

An armpit (axillary) temperature is taken by holding the thermometer under your baby's arm. To provide a correct reading, this must be done with care. Use the steps on this handout as a guide.

You can express your milk and store it in clean containers. Your partner or a sitter can feed it to the baby. This way, your baby gets the benefits of your milk even when you can't be there at feeding time. Follow these guidelines for milk storage.