What does postpartum hemorrhage feel like?

Written by Yue Hua
Obstetrics and Gynecology
Updated on September 10, 2024
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Postpartum hemorrhage refers to the condition where, within 24 hours after vaginal delivery, the amount of blood loss reaches 500 milliliters, and in the case of a cesarean section, the blood loss amounts to 1000 milliliters. During this time, the woman may experience a substantial amount of bleeding from the vagina, along with large blood clots. The primary cause of this condition is often significantly associated with poor contraction of the uterine muscles. Post-delivery, the blood sinuses in the uterine muscle layer are open, requiring the uterus to contract. If the contractions are inadequate, it may lead to bleeding from these blood sinuses. Additionally, bleeding could also potentially stem from post-surgical wounds, such as those from a cesarean section or wounds from vaginal delivery.

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Written by Liu Wen Li
Obstetrics
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What is postpartum hemorrhage?

Postpartum, the endometrium in the uterus sheds, and the lochia is expelled. Typically, this blood flow is slightly heavier than a menstrual period. If there are blood clots, it indicates a higher amount of bleeding, or that the blood is not moving much. If the blood accumulates inside the uterus or vagina for too long without being expelled, it can form clots. The presence of small blood clots is not alarming, but if there are many clots, it is advisable to see a doctor to check if poor uterine contraction is the cause. An ultrasound can determine if there are any residuals. If poor uterine contractions and residuals are ruled out, increasing activity and promptly expelling the blood can be beneficial.

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Written by Yue Hua
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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What should be done for late postpartum hemorrhage?

If there is a small or moderate amount of vaginal bleeding, high doses of antibiotics should be administered, along with medications to induce uterine contractions. This can reduce the amount of bleeding after the uterus contracts. If there is suspicion of placental remnants or other residues in the uterine cavity, then a dilation and curettage (D&C) surgery may be necessary. Before surgery, it is essential to prepare blood for transfusion in case of excessive bleeding. Additionally, the tissue removed during the procedure needs to be sent for pathological examination. After the D&C, it is important to continue treatment with anti-inflammatory medications and drugs that promote uterine contraction.

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Written by Zhao Li Li
Obstetrics
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What to eat for postpartum hemorrhage

Generally, postpartum hemorrhage is a very serious and common complication during the childbirth process. Depending on the type of postpartum hemorrhage, the general treatment methods and diet can differ significantly. The most common cause of postpartum hemorrhage is often attributed to insufficient uterine contractions, which increase the likelihood of bleeding. In such cases, once significant bleeding is confirmed, it is necessary to promptly administer oxytocin to facilitate uterine contraction and effectively reduce the occurrence of postpartum hemorrhage. Regarding diet, there are no specific considerations; a light, nutritious diet should be maintained, avoiding spicy and stimulating foods, and close monitoring of vaginal bleeding is also necessary.

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Written by Zhao Li Li
Obstetrics
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How long will postpartum bleeding last until it stops?

Generally, in normal childbirth or after cesarean section surgery, there is usually a small amount of vaginal bleeding, which typically subsides completely within about a week. If there is heavy bleeding after delivery, it is crucial to closely monitor the vaginal bleeding to rule out the possibility of delayed postpartum hemorrhage. If the uterus contracts well and there is no retention of placental fragments, the area will generally be clean within about a week, albeit with some bloody discharge. Therefore, if there is abnormal vaginal bleeding postpartum, it is recommended to promptly re-examine to exclude the possibility of late bleeding, so as to avoid endangering life.

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Written by Du Rui Xia
Obstetrics
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Postpartum constipation and bleeding from the anus what's going on?

When constipation occurs after childbirth and there is anal bleeding, it may be due to fissures caused by constipation or hemorrhoids causing blood vessel rupture and bleeding. Postpartum, due to the reduced activity of the mother and the consumption of too refined foods, waste cannot be smoothly expelled, leading to difficulty in defecation due to fecal impaction. During straining, this might cause rupture of the anus or fissures, or lead to hemorrhoids by disrupting local blood circulation. It is advisable to go to the hospital for a check-up to see if it is serious, and if necessary, treatment to stop the bleeding may be required.