As a board-certified OB-GYN with over a decade of experience in both hospital settings and my own practice at Wellness OBGYN in Honolulu, I've guided thousands of women through postpartum changes. Normal changes include vaginal laxity, which occurs because hormones like relaxin soften connective tissues to allow passage of the baby. Perineal tears and episiotomy sites typically heal within 6-8 weeks. Temporary urinary incontinence affects about 30% of new mothers due to pelvic floor weakening. Diastasis recti (abdominal muscle separation) is normal in about 60% of pregnancies. Abnormal changes include persistent heavy bleeding beyond 6 weeks, which could indicate retained placental tissue or subinvolution. Severe pain with intercourse after 3-4 months may suggest vestibulodynia or inadequate healing. Incontinence lasting beyond 6 months without improvement warrants evaluation for potential pelvic floor dysfunction. Dangerous signs requiring immediate attention include sudden heavy bleeding with clots larger than a golf ball, severe unilateral pain that could indicate ovarian torsion, foul-smelling discharge suggesting infection, or severe headaches with visual changes potentially indicating postpartum preeclampsia. At Wellness OBGYN, I've caught several cases of postpartum endometritis early through prompt evaluation of fever and pelvic pain, preventing more serious complications.