Postpartum Warning Signs
Recognizing When Something Isn’t Right
Your body continues to heal and adjust after giving birth. Some changes are expected—but others may be a sign that something is wrong. Call your care team right away if you experience any of the following symptoms. If you think it’s an emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department.
Call Your Care Team If You Have:
- A headache that does not go away or gets worse
- Dizziness or fainting
- A fever higher than 100.4°F (38°C)
- Thoughts of hurting yourself or your baby
- Blurry vision or other vision changes
- Trouble breathing or shortness of breath
- Chest pain or pressure
- Heavy bleeding (soaking more than two pads in one hour) or clots larger than a quarter
- Fluid, blood, or pus coming from your C-section incision
- Severe stomach or back pain
- A sore, red, or painful spot on your breast
- Swelling, redness, or pain in one leg
Physical Health
