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Postpartum Hemorrhage

Postpartum hemorrhage is a rare but serious condition characterized by heavy bleeding after birth. The medical professionals at Rock Hill GYN & OB provide treatment for this as well as other complications associated with pregnancy and childbirth. We are committed to providing the best care possible in an atmosphere imbued with compassion and respect.

Bleeding After Childbirth

It is important to be aware that bleeding occurs for several days after a vaginal birth. At the beginning it will be a bright red color and you will need to wear a hospital-grade pad. As time goes on, the bleeding will lessen. It will also darken to a rust color. You may continue to have discharge called lochia for up to 6 weeks after giving birth and it may become an almost green color. All of this is completely normal. What is not normal is severe, heavy bleeding that persists. If this occurs, you may be experiencing a condition called postpartum hemorrhage or PPH.

How to Recognize Postpartum Hemorrhage

PPH occurs when the contractions that push out the placenta after birth are not strong enough to remove it entirely or if small pieces of your placenta remained attached to the inside of your body. PPH can also occur in women who commenced vaginal labor but needed to have an unplanned C-section for an emergency situation. It is rare, impacting only 1% to 5% of women. When it does occur, it usually happens within a day of giving birth, but it could occur at any time up to 12 weeks postpartum.

Symptoms of PPH include:

  • Severe bleeding from the vagina that does not stop.
  • Blurred vision
  • The chills
  • Weakness or feeling like you are going to faint

If you think that you are experiencing PPH, contact your doctor or call 911 immediately. This condition causes a severe decrease in blood pressure which can send your body into shock – when your organs are not receiving enough blood – and can even result in death if it is not treated.

Schedule Your Appointment

Throughout your pregnancy and after delivering your baby it is important that you continue with regular checkups to evaluate your physical health. Listen to your body and if you are experiencing anything abnormal let your doctor know. Complications such as PPH can be treated, so reach out to Rock Hill GYN & OB in Rock Hill and Fort Mill, SC, to receive that first-class care you deserve.