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Although childbirth gives rise to new life, unfortunately about 700 women die from pregnancy-related complications each year in the U.S. Not all postpartum complications turn serious, but chronic conditions such as heart disease, obesity, or high blood pressure can increase the risk of pregnancy-related death. Most postpartum complications occur within 15 days after childbirth. It’s important to monitor your health after giving birth to look for any warning signs. What are signs of postpartum complications?After childbirth, you may be more focused on caring for your baby than yourself. This may result in neglecting your own health and missing some signs of complications that may occur within a few days, weeks, or even months after the delivery of your child. Call your doctor right away if you experience any of these signs or symptoms: Wound infection
Heavy bleedingBleeding that is heavier than your normal period or that keeps increasing is a sign of postpartum hemorrhage (PPH), or uncontrolled bleeding that occurs after delivery. This is a serious condition that requires immediate medical attention. Breast redness and painRedness, pain, tenderness, or swelling in the breast may indicate an infection called mastitis. Painful lumps in the breastHard, painful lumps in the breast may also be a sign of mastitis. Lumps are more likely to form because of breast engorgement, which occurs when you don’t release milk regularly or forget to clean your nipples after each feed. Severe pain in your lower abdomenYou may have a urinary tract infection (UTI) or endometritis, which is inflammation in the lining (endometrium) of the uterus. Foul-smelling vaginal dischargeThis may be a sign of either endometritis or bacterial vaginosis. Bacterial vaginosis occurs when good bacteria decreases in your vagina, leading to an overgrowth of harmful bacteria. Pain or burning sensation while peeingYou may have a UTI and experience additional symptoms such as pain in the lower abdomen. Pain, swelling, redness, or warmth in your legsYou may have deep vein thrombosis (DVT), which is the formation of blood clots in the deep veins of the leg. Being overweight or being on prolonged bed rest can increase the risk of developing this condition. Sudden shortness of breathThis may be a sign of pulmonary embolism. This occurs when blood clots due to DVT get lodged in the big (pulmonary) vein that carries blood to your lungs. Changes in vision, dizziness, severe headacheYou may have postpartum preeclampsia, characterized by high blood pressure and increased protein in your urine. Although rare, this is a serious condition that can lead to kidney and liver problems. New-onset chest painThis may be a sign of heart disease. Other signs of heart disease include breathlessness, chest pain radiating to the arms or back, and nausea. DepressionPostpartum depression (PPD) can fill you with feelings of anxiety and hopelessness caused by the sudden change in your life brought about by the birth of your baby. You may be unable to take care of yourself and your baby. In severe cases, PPD can lead to suicidal thoughts.
Medically Reviewed on 6/10/2021 References Pregnancy-related deaths. https://www.cdc.gov/vitalsigns/maternal-deaths/index.html Warning signs of health problems after birth. https://www.marchofdimes.org/pregnancy/warning-signs-of-health-problems-after-birth.aspx Labor and delivery, postpartum care: Postpartum complications: What you need to know. https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/labor-and-delivery/in-depth/postpartum-complications/art-20446702
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There’s no sugarcoating it: Childbirth (and the lead up to it) can be complicated. But while it may be tempting to slide into new-baby bliss when you bring your bundle of joy home, it's important to remain aware of your own body in the days and weeks after you give birth, and be able to recognize what’s normal, and what’s not. The first six weeks after having a baby are a major recovery period that come with heavy bleeding, perineal pain, body aches and other postpartum symptoms. These symptoms are completely normal (and don’t worry, you will feel better), but there are other symptoms that could be signs of a more serious condition. Here are the postpartum complications and warning signs you should be aware of, plus what to know about doctor's appointments after giving birth and steps you can take to reduce your risk for postpartum complications. Postpartum symptoms to watch out forIt’s completely normal to feel wiped out or straight-up uncomfortable in the days and weeks after giving birth, and you should expect some postpartum bleeding (known as lochia) whether you gave birth vaginally or had a C-section. But other symptoms could be signs of dangerous complications like postpartum hemorrhage, deep vein thrombosis or even heart problems. How can you tell normal postpartum discomfort from something more serious? Pay attention to these warning signs. Contact your health care provider as soon as possible if you experience:
Call 911 immediately if you experience:
Risk factors for postpartum complicationsPostpartum complications can have a variety of causes, but understanding your individual risk factors is important. Here are the biggest risk factors for the three most common postpartum complications. Risk factors for heart conditions (including heart disease and peripartum cardiomyopathy):
Risk factors for postpartum hemorrhage:Risk factors for deep vein thrombosis (DVT):
Is there any way to prevent postpartum complications?Unfortunately, there’s no surefire way to avoid postpartum complications. But there are steps you can take to minimize your risk and protect your health, including: Be proactive. Discuss your health history with your OB/GYN during your pregnancy and come up with a plan for managing any potential problems that may arise based on your risk factors. Stay on top of postpartum visits. Make your three-week and 12-week postpartum checkups a priority and be sure to schedule and attend any other appointments your doctor recommends. Stay in touch with your doctor. If you notice any unusual postpartum symptoms, speak up! Your health could depend on it. Postpartum checkups: When they are and how your OB can help spot red flagsWomen should see their doctors within three weeks of giving birth and undergo a comprehensive exam within 12 weeks postpartum, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommends.
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