Problems After Delivery of Your Baby

Emergencies

Yes	Do you have any of the following symptoms that require emergency treatment? Call 911 or other emergency services immediately.

• Any of the following after delivery:
  • Signs of shock
  • Fainting (syncope) or loss of consciousness
  • Seizures. Note: For information about how to help a seizure victim, see protecting a victim from harm during a seizure.
  • Severe belly pain
  • Signs of a pulmonary embolus, such as sudden, sharp chest pain; shortness of breath; chest pain that gets worse with deep breathing or coughing; coughing up blood; fast heart rate; sweating; feeling anxious

Check Your Symptoms

If you answer yes to any of the following questions, click on the "Yes" in front of the question for information about how soon to see a health professional.

Review health risks that may increase the seriousness of your symptoms.

Note:

If you develop problems and your doctor has given you specific instructions to follow, be sure to follow those instructions.

Yes	Do you have vaginal bleeding?
Yes	Do you have belly, pelvic, or back (flank) pain?
Yes	Do you have pain when you breathe or pain deep in your leg or calf?
Yes	Do you have breast problems?
Yes	Are you having problems breast-feeding?
Yes	Do you have a fever?
Yes	Do you have ongoing symptoms of postpartum depression?
Yes	Do you have any urinary problems?
Yes	Do you have a change in your bowel habits?
Yes	Do you have abnormal vaginal discharge?

Other Symptoms to Watch For

Do you have any of the following symptoms?

• Leg swelling: Go to the topic Leg Problems, Noninjury.

If a visit to a health professional is not needed immediately, see the Home Treatment section for self-care information.

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Author:	Jan Nissl, RN, BS	Last Updated: August 7, 2006
Medical Review:	Renée M. Crichlow, MD - Family Medicine Liisa Honey, MD, FRCSC - Obstetrics and Gynecology
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