How long does it take to recover from postpartum hemorrhage?

Written by Du Rui Xia
Obstetrics
Updated on December 26, 2024
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Postpartum hemorrhage is a relatively common and serious complication clinically, but how long does it take to recover from postpartum hemorrhage? This depends on the physical condition of the mother. Typically, recovery takes about 4-6 weeks after delivery. Women with weaker constitutions may take longer to recover. When postpartum hemorrhage occurs, appropriate measures should be taken based on the cause. If there are lacerations in the birth canal, timely suturing is necessary. Additionally, if there is weak uterine contraction, medications that stimulate uterine contraction should be used to promote contraction and stop the bleeding.

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Written by Zhang Lu
Obstetrics
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Does postpartum hemorrhage require a blood transfusion?

The definition of postpartum hemorrhage is bleeding greater than 500 milliliters approximately 24 hours after vaginal delivery. Whether blood transfusion is necessary for postpartum hemorrhage mainly depends on the specific amount of bleeding. For average women, if the hemoglobin level is normal before delivery and the bleeding is between 500-1000 milliliters, the body can compensate for the anemia through normal adjustments, and generally, a blood transfusion is not required. However, if the bleeding exceeds 1000 milliliters, this situation is considered massive hemorrhage and must be treated with a blood transfusion, otherwise it may lead to hemorrhagic shock or DIC (Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation).

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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 Zhang Lu
Obstetrics
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Can postpartum hemorrhage be treated?

Postpartum hemorrhage refers to bleeding exceeding 800 or 1000 milliliters within a short period after childbirth. It is currently the leading cause of maternal mortality in clinical practice. With the improvement of clinical treatment levels and the enhancement of diagnostic capabilities for postpartum hemorrhage, the vast majority of such cases can be well-managed. The keys to addressing postpartum hemorrhage effectively are early diagnosis and early intervention, which can lead to favorable outcomes. The main causes of postpartum hemorrhage include uterine atony, retained placenta and membranes, injuries to the soft birth canal, and coagulation disorders. When significant postpartum bleeding occurs, it is crucial to carefully investigate these four aspects to identify the cause and intervene accordingly, often leading to successful treatment outcomes.

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Written by Liu Wei Jie
Obstetrics
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Does postpartum hemorrhage count as dystocia?

Postpartum hemorrhage is one of the very important causes that endanger the lives of mothers. Although hemorrhage is not considered as dystocia, conditions of dystocia can induce severe hemorrhage. This is because complications such as trauma to the birth canal and uterine atony might occur after dystocia. These issues are triggers for severe postpartum hemorrhage. Even in normal cesarean sections, there can be cases of severe postpartum hemorrhage, thus postpartum hemorrhage is not counted as dystocia, but dystocia can easily induce severe postpartum hemorrhage.

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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.