Postpartum Bleeding
What is Postpartum Bleeding?
Postpartum bleeding, also known as postpartum hemorrhage, is the loss of blood that occurs after childbirth. It is a normal process that occurs after the delivery of a baby. Postpartum bleeding can last from two to six weeks, but typically subsides after about two to four weeks.
What Causes Postpartum Bleeding?
Postpartum bleeding occurs as a result of uterine contractions that occur after the baby is born. These contractions help the uterus to expel the placenta and other tissues that were attached to the baby during pregnancy. After the placenta and other tissues are expelled, the uterus contracts and shrinks back to its pre-pregnancy size. This contraction of the uterus can cause bleeding.
Postpartum bleeding can also occur if the placenta does not detach from the uterus or if it is incompletely detached. This condition is known as placenta accreta and can cause severe bleeding after the baby is born. Postpartum bleeding can also occur due to a medical complication known as coagulopathy, or an inability of the blood to clot properly.
What Are the Symptoms of Postpartum Bleeding?
- Heavy bleeding from the vagina
- Pelvic pain
- Fever
- Nausea and vomiting
- Dizziness or light-headedness
Treatment of Postpartum Bleeding
Treatment for postpartum bleeding depends on the cause. In some cases, the bleeding can be managed with medication and rest. If the bleeding is severe or if there is an underlying medical problem causing the bleeding, surgery may be necessary.
If the bleeding is due to an incomplete or retained placenta, the doctor may need to manually remove the placenta from the uterus. In cases of coagulopathy, medications and blood transfusions may be needed.
Preventing Postpartum Bleeding
The best way to prevent postpartum bleeding is to take good care of yourself during pregnancy. Eating a balanced diet, getting regular exercise, and taking high-quality prenatal vitamins can all help reduce your risk of postpartum bleeding. You should also make sure to attend all of your prenatal visits so that your doctor can keep an eye on your health.
Your doctor may also suggest taking certain medications during labor and delivery to reduce the risk of postpartum bleeding. Some medications can help the uterus contract more effectively, which can prevent excessive bleeding after giving birth. Talk to your doctor about your options and make sure to discuss any medications you are taking during pregnancy.