If you are bleeding heavily after birth, feel faint or dizzy, have trouble breathing, chest pain, or a fast heartbeat, get emergency medical care now. Tell the care team that you are pregnant or were pregnant within the past year.
What is postpartum hemorrhage?
Postpartum hemorrhage is bleeding after childbirth that is much heavier than expected. It most often happens soon after delivery, but serious bleeding can also occur later in the postpartum period. It is a medical emergency because blood loss can become dangerous quickly.
Warning signs that need immediate care
- Bleeding that soaks through one or more pads in an hour
- Passing clots larger than an egg
- Bleeding that suddenly becomes heavier instead of gradually improving
- Dizziness, fainting, confusion, unusual weakness, or overwhelming fatigue
- A fast heartbeat, chest pain, pale or clammy skin, or trouble breathing
Call emergency services if symptoms are severe, you may pass out, or you cannot reach your maternity care team promptly. Do not drive yourself if you feel faint or very weak.
Why it happens
Common causes include the uterus not contracting firmly after birth, retained placental tissue, tears in the cervix or vagina, and problems with blood clotting. Placenta conditions, prolonged or very fast labor, uterine overdistention, cesarean birth, and a prior hemorrhage can raise risk. However, postpartum hemorrhage can happen without an obvious risk factor.
How clinicians prepare and respond
Birth teams routinely watch blood loss and uterine tone after delivery. Treatment depends on the cause and may include uterine massage, medicines that help the uterus contract, IV fluids, blood products, procedures to control bleeding, or surgery. Fast recognition and coordinated treatment are essential.
Plan before birth
- Discuss prior hemorrhage, anemia, placenta problems, bleeding disorders, and medications with your clinician.
- Ask how your birth location prepares for obstetric emergencies.
- Know whom to call after hours and where to seek urgent care after discharge.
- Make sure support people know the warning signs and can speak up if something feels wrong.
This article is educational and does not replace care from your own clinician. New or worsening symptoms during pregnancy or within a year after birth deserve prompt medical attention.
