Postpartum complications

The postpartum period is the time immediately after a woman delivers her baby. It is the time when the mother's body is changing back to the non-pregnant state. It lasts approximately 6 weeks or until the reproductive organs return to normal size. During the postpartum period, a woman can expect a variety of symptoms ranging from physical discomfort to emotional upsets.

Feeling overwhelmed with the responsibility of caring for an infant is a normal postpartum symptom. Other emotions may include sadness, feeling helpless, and a "let down" feeling. Discomfort in the perineum (area between the rectum and vagina) is expected and may cause difficulty with sitting or walking. It is common for the breasts to be swollen and painful. The new mother may feel tired, experience hot flashes and sweating, and may be constipated. A woman may also have a reduced interest in sex for up to 6 months after childbirth. All these symptoms are normal, a temporary reaction to childbirth.

There are symptoms that are not normal and may be considered postpartum complications. Contact your healthcare provider immediately if one of more of these symptoms develop:

• temperature of 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit (38 degrees Centigrade) or greater
• chills
• nausea or vomiting
• moderate to strong abdominal or back pain that is more than just an ache
• increased pain, swelling, redness, or drainage from the episiotomy or C-section incision
• bleeding through more than one pad per hour
• blood clots the size of a plum
• a foul smelling vaginal discharge
• chest pains
• increasing tenderness in the lower abdomen
• red, warm to the touch, painful breasts
• burning when urinating or blood in the urine
• a severe headache in the forehead and behind the eyes, accompanied by extreme pain while sitting or standing
• feeling depressed or blue for more than 3 days
• severe weakness
• extreme paleness or
• a rapid, racing pulse

Treatment for complications varies depending on the source of the problem. Infection usually responds to antibiotic treatment. Other special medications and procedures are available for treating postpartum problems.

A new mother who experiences one or more of these symptoms should contact her provider immediately.

Last Reviewed 2005

Disclaimer: This content is reviewed periodically and is subject to change as new health information becomes available. The information provided is intended to be informative and educational and is not a replacement for professional medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or treatment by a healthcare professional.

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