Postpartum complications are relatively common, with more than one third of women experiencing a persistent health condition. The most frequent complications are anxiety, depression, hypertension, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and hemorrhage.
The Episcopal Health Services (EHS) Labor and Delivery team provides exceptional care for patients who experience postpartum complications. Drawing on extensive experience in diagnosis and treatment, the team develops individualized care plans that help patients manage symptoms and achieve optimal health outcomes.
What Are Postpartum Complications?
Postpartum complications are medical conditions that arise after childbirth. These complications most commonly occur within the first six to eight weeks following delivery, though some may develop or persist beyond this period as the body returns to its pre-pregnancy state.
Because of the physical changes associated with recovery and the demands of caring for a newborn, symptoms such as pain, fatigue or continued bleeding may be mistakenly regarded as normal. However, these symptoms can indicate serious conditions, including postpartum hemorrhage, that may be life-threatening if left untreated. Prompt communication with your healthcare provider is essential if any concerning symptoms occur after delivery.
Am I at Risk for Postpartum Complications?
Risk factors include:
- A history of cardiovascular or blood disorders, or other pre-existing medical conditions
- Obesity (body mass index [BMI] of 30 or higher)
- Hypertension
- Multiple gestation pregnancies, such as twins
- Pregnancy-related complications, including preeclampsia or amniotic fluid embolism (a rare condition in which fetal material enters the maternal bloodstream)
- Advanced maternal age
- Pre-existing mental health conditions
What Are the Signs of Postpartum Complications?
You may be experiencing a postpartum complication if you develop any of the following:
- New or persistent pain, including sharp chest pain or leg and ankle pain accompanied by swelling
- Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
- Persistent fatigue despite adequate rest
- Severe headache that does not resolve, worsens despite medication or is associated with dizziness or visual disturbances
- Ongoing dizziness or lightheadedness
- Visual changes, including blurriness, spots, or light sensitivity
- Fever of 101°F or higher
- Persistent nausea or vomiting
- A delivery-related wound that does not heal or is draining, including cesarean section incisions or vaginal lacerations
- Heavy vaginal bleeding that does not decrease (soaking one or more pads per hour for one to two hours)
- Vaginal discharge with a foul odor
- Passage of large blood clots (approximately the size of an egg)
- Seizures
- Thoughts of harming yourself or your newborn
If you experience any of these symptoms, seek immediate medical attention at Episcopal Health Services.
How Do Postpartum Complications Affect Me?
If left untreated, postpartum complications can be serious and, in some cases, life-threatening. Depending on your symptoms, potential conditions may include:
- Cardiovascular or hematologic disorders
- Pulmonary embolism, in which a blood clot obstructs an artery in the lungs
- Postpartum hemorrhage
- Postpartum preeclampsia
- Breast-related conditions such as mastitis, nipple trauma, pain or engorgement
- Poorly healing perineal tears or episiotomy sites
- Hemorrhoids
- Constipation
- Urinary or fecal incontinence
- Stroke
- Inflammatory conditions of the reproductive organs, including salpingitis or endometritis
- Severe infections such as sepsis
- Deep vein thrombosis, typically involving blood clots in the legs or pelvis
- Mood and anxiety disorders, including postpartum depression and postpartum psychosis
Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment are critical to protecting your health and supporting your ability to care for your newborn.
How Are Postpartum Complications Treated?
Treatment is individualized based on the nature and severity of symptoms, medical history and other factors. Depending on the diagnosis, treatment may include medication, physical or psychological therapy, lifestyle modifications or specialized interventions. For example, anticoagulant medications may be prescribed for blood clots, while therapy and medication may be recommended for mood or anxiety disorders.
What Steps Should I Take After Treatment?
Following treatment, prioritizing self-care is essential for recovery and prevention of further complications. Recommended steps may include:
- Allowing adequate time for rest and recovery
- Maintaining a balanced, nutritious diet
- Staying well hydrated
- Limiting physical exertion as advised
- Attending all scheduled medical and mental health follow-up appointments
- Practicing proper perineal care
- Monitoring for any new or worsening symptoms
- Following all recommendations provided by your healthcare team
Why Choose Episcopal Health Services for Postpartum Care?
Episcopal Health Services provides comprehensive, coordinated care for postpartum patients and their newborns. Our Baby-Friendly designation reflects a commitment to the highest standards of maternal and neonatal care. The Labor and Delivery team is board-certified by the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology, and EHS is affiliated with Cohen Children’s Medical Center, home to a Level IV Neonatal Intensive Care Unit.
For more information about Obstetrics and Gynecology services at Episcopal Health Services, please call 718-869-7382.
To schedule an appointment, call 718-869-7690, or click here to find an Obstetrician or Gynecologist at Episcopal Health Services.