Go through these in order and stop at the first one that applies. If you are reading this for someone else, answer for them.
1
Is any of this happening now?
Call 911
Get urgent or emergency help for:
Trouble breathing, chest pain, coughing blood, or fainting
Heavy bleeding that rapidly soaks pads or causes dizziness
Severe or rapidly worsening abdominal pain
A painful, red, or swollen leg
A severe headache with vision changes, weakness, confusion, or seizures
Thoughts of harming yourself or your baby
Other emergency signs, for anyone
Someone who is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
Someone who has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
Someone who is unconscious, or cannot be woken
Someone who is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
Someone who has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
Someone who has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
Someone who you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
2
Is any of this happening?
Be seen today
Seek prompt medical advice if you develop:
Increasing redness, swelling, warmth, pain, or discharge at the incision
Fever or feeling increasingly unwell
Pain or burning when urinating
Vaginal bleeding that is becoming heavier rather than lighter
Persistent vomiting or difficulty eating and drinking
New or worsening sadness, anxiety, confusion, or difficulty coping
3
Does any of this apply?
Book an appointment
For routine questions about wound care, pain medicine, activity, feeding, or follow-up, contact your maternity or primary care team during normal service hours.
Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on C-section. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.