Postpartum Warning Signs: When to Seek Help Immediately
The weeks after giving birth are a vulnerable time for new mothers. While some discomfort is normal, certain symptoms can signal life-threatening complications. Knowing these warning signs could save your life. Trust your instincts — if something feels wrong, it probably is.
What's Happening
Your body goes through major changes after childbirth. While recovery takes time, some symptoms require immediate medical attention. Postpartum complications can develop days or even weeks after delivery.
The most common serious postpartum conditions include:
- Postpartum hemorrhage: Excessive bleeding after birth
- Postpartum preeclampsia: High blood pressure after delivery
- Postpartum cardiomyopathy: Heart problems that can develop in late pregnancy or months after birth
- Pulmonary embolism: Blood clot in the lungs
- Postpartum infections: Infections of the uterus, incision, or urinary tract
- Postpartum depression/psychosis: Mental health emergencies
Black women are 3-4 times more likely to die from pregnancy-related complications. Your concerns are valid. Advocate for yourself.
Call 911 or Go to the ER Immediately If You Have
- Heavy bleeding — soaking more than one pad per hour
- Severe headache that won't go away or vision changes
- Temperature of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher
- Chest pain or trouble breathing
- Seizures or fainting
- Swelling, redness, or pain in one leg (could be blood clot)
- Thoughts of harming yourself or your baby
- Severe pain in your belly that doesn't get better
- Wound that won't heal or has discharge, redness, swelling
- Feeling extremely sad, hopeless, or unable to care for yourself or baby
What To Do Next – Step by Step
Don't Wait — Act Immediately
If you have any of the warning signs above, call 911 or go to the ER now. Don't wait to see if it gets better. Postpartum complications can become life-threatening quickly.
Call Your OB/Midwife
If you're concerned but not in immediate danger, call your obstetric provider right away. They have on-call services 24/7. Describe your symptoms clearly.
Bring Your Postpartum Records
If going to the ER, bring your discharge papers from your delivery. This gives providers critical information about your birth and any complications.
Bring a Support Person
Have someone with you who can advocate for you if you're too weak or sick to speak for yourself. They can also take notes.
Speak Up and Be Persistent
If you feel dismissed, clearly state: 'I am [number of days/weeks] postpartum. I am concerned about [specific symptom]. I need this evaluated now.'
Know Your Blood Pressure Numbers
If you had high blood pressure during pregnancy, monitor it at home. Blood pressure over 140/90 postpartum requires immediate medical attention.
What To Say – Scripts You Can Use
When calling your provider:
"I am [X days/weeks] postpartum and I'm experiencing [specific symptoms]. This started [when]. I'm concerned because [reason]. I need to know if I should go to the ER or be seen today."
At the ER check-in:
"I'm postpartum — I gave birth [X days/weeks] ago. I'm experiencing [symptoms]. I'm worried about postpartum complications. I need to be evaluated urgently."
If staff try to send you home:
"I don't feel safe going home. I'm postpartum and my symptoms are concerning. I would like to be fully evaluated and have my concerns documented in my chart before any discharge decision is made."
If you feel dismissed:
"I understand you may not think this is serious, but postpartum complications can be life-threatening. Black and minority mothers face higher risks of maternal mortality. I need my symptoms taken seriously. Please document my concerns."
Frequently Asked Questions
Document and Report Incidents in Real Time
HEARD helps you document symptoms, track concerns, and communicate with your healthcare team — so you're never dismissed again.
Related Resources
Preeclampsia Warning Signs
Know the signs of this dangerous pregnancy and postpartum condition.
Postpartum High Blood Pressure
Understanding and monitoring blood pressure after birth.
Postpartum Headache: When to Worry
Learn when a headache after birth is a medical emergency.
How to Advocate for Yourself in the Hospital
Tools to ensure you're heard in medical settings.