MODEL RELEASED. Mother and baby undergoing a post- natal check-up with their general practice doctor The post-natal check-up usually takes place four to six weeks after the baby's birth and is used to check all is well with both mother and baby. The doctor will examine the mother's cervix and vagina and palpate her abdomen to ensure that her uterus is returning to its normal shape. He will perform a cervical smear test, check on any episiotomy or tear scar, check her weight and blood pressure and discuss contraception. He will also listen to the baby's heart and lungs and check for the presence of certain reflexes and for free movement of the hip joints. Models: Michael Dawson, Julia & Baby Wrightson. The baby is 5 weeks old.