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Warning-sign checks

PPH: when to get help

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. 1

    Is any of this happening now?

    Call 911

    Get emergency help now if you are bleeding heavily after birth, especially if the bleeding is pouring or rapidly soaking pads.

    Also treat it as an emergency if you feel faint, confused, very weak, short of breath, clammy, or aware of a very fast heartbeat.

    Call emergency services and, if possible, have someone stay with you.

    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. 2

    Is any of this happening?

    Be seen today

    Seek urgent same-day assessment if bleeding becomes heavier after it had been easing, you pass repeated large clots, or you develop fever, worsening pelvic pain, or unpleasant-smelling discharge.

    These can be signs of secondary PPH or infection.

  3. 3

    Does any of this apply?

    Book an appointment

    Arrange routine follow-up if fatigue, dizziness, headaches, breathlessness, or heart pounding are not improving.

    You may need a blood test for anemia or a review of your iron treatment.

    Routine follow-up is also appropriate if you want to understand the events of the birth, discuss emotional effects, or plan for a future pregnancy.

The article also says

Do not drive yourself if you feel faint or the bleeding is heavy.

Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on PPH. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.