After Delivery: When to Call the Doctor
Area |
Symptoms |
Possible Cause |
|
Discharge |
If blood soaks a sanitary pad every hour for more than 2 hours If the discharge smells foul If the discharge contains very large clots (larger than a golf ball) |
Bleeding (hemorrhage) |
|
Temperature |
If the temperature is 100.4° F (38° C) or higher at any time during the first week |
|
|
Urination |
If urination hurts (not just stings) If the bladder cannot be emptied completely If urination occurs much more frequently than usual |
|
|
Lower abdomen |
If pain or discomfort is felt in the lower abdomen (above the pubic area) after the first 5 days |
Infection of the uterus or bladder |
|
Back |
If pain is felt in the back or side just under the rib cage, particularly if fever is also present or urination is painful |
Kidney infection |
|
Breast |
If a firm lump is felt in the breast after engorgement has subsided |
A blocked milk duct |
|
|
If the breast is painful, swollen, or red or feels hot or tender |
|
|
Mood |
If a new mother has any of the following symptoms for more than 2 weeks: |
|
|
Incision from a cesarean delivery |
If soreness increases If this area turns red or becomes swollen or hard to the touch If there is any discharge from the incision |
Wound infection |
|
Leg or chest |
If the leg is swollen or painful If a new mother has sudden, sharp chest pain or chest pain that worsens when she inhales If breathing becomes difficult |
|
|
General |
If a new mother feels light-headed, faints, or feels short of breath |
A blood clot in the lungs Severe anemia |