New Mothers, Look For These Warning Signs After Birth

Childbirth is a joyous time for the whole family but at the same time, it could be critical in some cases. That's one reason why it is called the mother's second life. A lot of new mothers suffer from health complications post-delivery and at times these can be life-threatening. To prevent these common conditions from aggravating, it is essential that new mothers are cognizant of the warning signs way ahead. We spoke to Dr. Chetna Jain, Alumnus Royal College Of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists, Director Dept. Obg Gynaecology at Cloudnine Group Of Hospitals, Sector 14 Gurgaon, to learn more about this. Speaking of these warning signs she said, "Warning signs or complications for the new mother could be immediate i.e. within 48 hours of childbirth or six weeks of childbirth or late by six weeks to one year after childbirth. These complications are not only related to physical well-being or physical symptoms but these could be symptoms related to mental health. There are some warning signs when the woman should immediately see a doctor."1. Chest Pain2. Trouble In Breathing 3. Seizures Or FitsIn such cases, our expert suggested that the woman should immediately visit a doctor. If it isn't possible to reach the hospital alone, call an ambulance. The patient in any of these conditions should be taken to the hospital in the lying position. Their face should be turned to one side and somebody should keep her awake till the time she reaches the hospital. Most women see a majority of these complications within six weeks after delivery.

Excessive Bleeding

[photo1]If the woman is bleeding one pad per hour


containing large clots and it has been a couple of hours since she is bleeding like this then the condition is termed as excessive bleeding. This could be a sign of an internal tear. In this case, the woman should inform the doctor and once the cause is identified, she can be treated accordingly.

Excessive Pain

Excessive pain near the incision can be a sign of internal bleeding in the stitch line be it a cesarean section or a normal delivery. It needs to be inspected and treated accordingly.

Fever

If the temperature is more than 100 or 104 degrees, this could be a serious warning sign. This typically occurs after 48 hours. It indicates that the woman might be suffering from an infection and it could be in the breasts or the incision or uterus. Only an examination will be able to identify where the issue is.

Foul Smelling Discharge

A foul-smelling pus discharge coming from the incision can be the sign of an infection and needs an inspection from the treating physician.Don't Miss: Kegels Pre And Post Delivery: Right Way To Do It, Benefits Explained By Expert

Pain In Passing Urine

This could hint at a urine infection. If there is an inability to pass urine within three hours of delivery that means the new mother has either not taken enough water or there is some urinary issue that needs inspection.

Red, Painful Breasts

[photo2]If the mother feels pain in the breasts or a lump then there could be breast infection or blocked ducts that need to be treated with appropriate massage, expression of breast milk, or if required antibiotics.Don't Miss: Postpartum Haemorrhage: Common Causes And Treatment For New Moms By ExpertAbdominal pain, foul-smelling vaginal discharge, rapid breathing, chest pain, changes in vision, headache, pain in the upper abdomen, sudden weight gain, and body swelling are some physical signs a new mother should be cognizant of and see a doctor immediately to get these treated.