After Pregnancy and Childbirth (Postpartum): 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) or women have an urge to urinate very frequently If the bladder cannot be emptied completely | |
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 |