Postpartum Red Flags: What You Need to Know.
First of all, congratulations! Whether you’ve just had your baby or are in those first few weeks of parenthood, it’s such a huge transition. You’ve probably heard a lot about the joys of motherhood, but the reality is, postpartum can be really challenging and unpredictable. While there are so many beautiful moments, there can also be a lot of new, sometimes uncomfortable, experiences that can leave you wondering, “Is this normal?”
That’s exactly why we’re here to help. In this blog, we’re talking about some postpartum red flags—those signs that, if noticed, might mean you need to reach out to a healthcare provider. Remember, no question is too small, and taking care of yourself is just as important as taking care of your baby. If something feels off, it’s always better to check in with someone.
1. Painful Urination: This Isn’t Just the New Normal
After giving birth, your body is going through a lot of changes, and yes, things down there can feel a bit off. But if urination becomes painful or feels like it’s burning or stinging, it’s something to pay attention to. Painful urination can be a sign of a urinary tract infection (UTI), which is common after birth but still needs treatment.
What you might be feeling:
A burning sensation when you pee.
A constant feeling of needing to go, but not being able to fully empty your bladder.
Pain or pressure around your lower abdomen.
What you can do:
Drink plenty of water to flush out bacteria.
Try using a peri bottle to rinse yourself off gently after using the bathroom.
If the pain persists, don’t hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider for a UTI test and treatment.
2. Heavy Bleeding: When to Be Concerned
Bleeding after birth is totally normal—your body is healing, and that’s what the lochia (postpartum bleeding) is. But if the bleeding seems way heavier than what you were expecting, or if it’s soaking through a pad in an hour or less, this could be a sign of something more serious, like postpartum hemorrhage.
What you might be feeling:
Bleeding that’s excessively heavy, like you’re soaking through multiple pads.
Passing large blood clots, especially if they’re larger than a golf ball.
Fainting, dizziness, or a feeling of weakness.
What you can do:
Keep track of the amount and color of your bleeding. If it’s too heavy or if you’re feeling faint, don’t wait—get in touch with your doctor.
Rest, hydrate, and follow up with your provider. Heavy bleeding can be a sign that your body needs extra support to heal.
3. Fever: Not Just a Postpartum Chill
It’s totally normal to experience a mild fever right after birth, but if your fever spikes to 100.4°F or higher, it could be a sign of an infection. Your body is working hard to recover, but if something feels “off,” it’s important to listen to those signals.
What you might be feeling:
A fever above 100.4°F.
Chills or sweating.
Soreness or discomfort in your body, especially around your uterus, breasts, or perineum.
What you can do:
Rest, hydrate, and monitor your temperature.
If the fever lasts for more than a day or is accompanied by other symptoms, like pain, swelling, or redness, give your provider a call to rule out infection.
4. Excessive Worry: When Anxiety Feels Overwhelming
After giving birth, it’s common to feel a little anxious—heck, you’re caring for a tiny human, and that’s a lot to manage. But if you’re feeling overly anxious, excessively worried, or like you can’t function because of it, you might be dealing with postpartum anxiety, which is totally treatable.
What you might be feeling:
Excessive worry or fear that something bad will happen to you or your baby.
Racing thoughts or trouble sleeping, even when you’re exhausted.
A sense of being overwhelmed or out of control.
What you can do:
Talk to someone you trust. Sharing how you’re feeling can be a huge relief.
Practice deep breathing or mindfulness techniques to calm your mind.
If the worry is taking over your life, please reach out to a mental health professional who can help you navigate this.
Postpartum recovery is no joke, and while some of the changes you’re experiencing are completely normal, there are certain signs that shouldn’t be ignored. You are your best advocate, and if something doesn’t feel right, it’s always worth reaching out to your healthcare provider. You deserve to feel supported, healthy, and safe as you navigate this new chapter of your life.
At En Route Doulas, we’re here to help you through both the beautiful and challenging moments. If you need guidance, have questions, or just need someone to listen, we’ve got your back every step of the way. You don’t have to go through this alone.