Postpartum Danger Signs
Postpartum discomforts are normal. However, some discomforts may be a sign that there is a problem. Call your healthcare provider if you have any of these signs or symptoms:
- Fever more than 100.4°F
- Nausea and vomiting
- Pain or burning during urination
- Bleeding that’s heavier than a normal menstrual period or that increases
- Severe pain in your lower abdomen
- Pain, swelling, and tenderness in your legs
- Chest pain and coughing or gasping for air
- Red streaks on your breasts or painful new lumps in your breasts
- Pain that doesn’t go away or that gets worse from an episiotomy, perineal tear, or abdominal incision
- Redness or discharge from an episiotomy, perineal tear, or abdominal incision
- Vaginal discharge that smells bad
- Feelings of hopelessness that last more than 10 days after delivery
Postpartum Sadness and Depression
70-80% of new mothers experience feelings of sadness.
But for about 10-15% of women, these feelings are more intense and don’t go away in a few weeks. This can signal a more serious condition called postpartum depression.
"Baby Blues"
Many new mothers feel depressed, anxious, and upset after the birth of a child. These feelings don’t seem to match their expectations.
These emotions, however, are very normal. Many people experience a range of unexpected emotions after giving birth.
It can be helpful to talk to your health care provider about your feelings.
Postpartum Depression
Postpartum depression is marked by feelings of despair, severe anxiety, or hopelessness that get in the way of daily life.
It can occur up to 1 year after having a baby, but it most commonly happens about 1-3 weeks after childbirth. Some women are more likely to have postpartum depression than others.
Risk Factors for Postpartum Depression
- History of depression before, after, or during pregnancy
- History of premenstrual syndrome or premenstrual dysphoric disorder
- Recent stress, such as losing a loved one, a family illness, or moving to a new city
- Lack of support
Check With Your Health Care Provider
If you have the signs and symptoms of postpartum depression, or if your partner or family members are concerned that you do, it is important to see your health care provider as soon as possible. Do not wait until your postpartum checkup.
Breastfeeding While Medicating
Breastfeeding has many benefits for both you and your baby. If medication is recommended, it is best to discuss this decision with your health care provider and with your baby’s pediatrician or health care provider.
