What is postpartum hemorrhage?

Written by Liu Wen Li
Obstetrics
Updated on May 06, 2025
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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 Du Rui Xia
Obstetrics
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How long will it take for postpartum anal fissure bleeding to heal?

Generally, anal fissures that occur postpartum may heal on their own within about a week. For more severe cases, timely surgical treatment is necessary. The specific recovery time also depends on the physical condition of the mother, such as nutritional status, diet, and everyday habits—whether her diet is balanced, whether she drinks enough water, etc., all of which can affect the recovery and progression of the condition. If postpartum women improve their diet by eating more fresh vegetables and fruits, drinking more soups, and developing regular bowel habits to alleviate constipation, the anal fissures can also improve on their own.

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Written by Du Rui Xia
Obstetrics
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Can you eat spicy food with late postpartum hemorrhage?

Women who experience late postpartum hemorrhage should not eat spicy foods. Spicy foods are not conducive to wound healing. Additionally, they may reduce the body's immune resistance, which could potentially lead to infections. Women who have postpartum bleeding should focus on a light diet and consume high-nutrition, easily digestible foods, such as eggs, milk, lean meat, fresh vegetables, and fruits, which can provide the necessary nutrients needed for postpartum recovery. Furthermore, appropriate physical activity is also beneficial for bodily recovery.

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Written by Zhao Li Li
Obstetrics
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Can postpartum hemorrhage be stopped?

Postpartum hemorrhage primarily refers to bleeding from the vagina exceeding 500 milliliters within 24 hours after the delivery of the fetus, and bleeding exceeding 1000 milliliters for cesarean deliveries. It is classified as postpartum hemorrhage. Normally, active hemostatic symptomatic treatment should be pursued in cases of bleeding after childbirth. The majority of cases are often caused by poor uterine contraction, which significantly raises the likelihood of postpartum hemorrhage. Generally, it is necessary to actively use drugs that promote uterine contractions to help in reducing bleeding by aiding the contraction of the uterus.

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Written by Liu Wei Jie
Obstetrics
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What are the warning signs of postpartum hemorrhage?

Postpartum hemorrhage generally does not have warning signs but usually has precipitating factors. These factors include maternal fear, psychological tension, macrosomia or twin pregnancy, as well as conditions like uterine fibroids, placental abruption, or placenta previa. In cases of placenta previa during a cesarean section, there is a high likelihood of severe bleeding. There is only one condition that might signal an impending postpartum hemorrhage, which is placental abruption. If placental abruption occurs, it can cause severe abdominal pain along with issues of hypertension during pregnancy. If a person with pregnancy-induced hypertension experiences severe abdominal pain, this could be a precursor to postpartum hemorrhage.

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Written by Du Rui Xia
Obstetrics
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Is it normal to have ovulation bleeding during postpartum breastfeeding?

During the postpartum breastfeeding period, it is normal for mothers to experience bleeding during ovulation. Most women who bleed during ovulation are affected by fluctuations in hormone levels in the body. The bleeding usually occurs midway between two menstrual periods, and the amount of blood is relatively small and light in color. It usually returns to normal within one to two days, so there is no need to worry when ovulation bleeding occurs. It is important to rest, avoid overwork, enhance nutrition, keep warm, and avoid getting cold. During breastfeeding, it is essential to observe the amount of vaginal bleeding. If menstruation resumes, it is crucial to pay attention to contraception.