The following problems are not normal in the postpartum period and should be evaluated by your physician or midwife:
- Fever – A temperature of 100.4 or greater is considered a fever after delivery.
- High blood pressure – Elevated blood pressures after birth are defined as the top number (systolic blood pressure) is 140 or greater and/or the bottom number (diastolic blood pressure) is 90 or greater.
- Headache – A headache that does not completely go away after taking Tylenol or ibuprofen (Aleve, Advil). Or the worst headache of your life.
- Visual changes – Spots in front of your eyes or unable to see parts of your visual field.
- Upper belly pain – Pain above your belly button on the right hand side that does not go away.
- Chest pain.
- Shortness of breath – Difficulty catching your breath, difficulty taking a deep breath, feeling like you aren’t getting enough air. Difficulty breathing when laying down. Difficulty breathing with movement.
- Heavy vaginal bleeding – Fully saturating 1 maxi-pad an hour or more and/or passing large clots golf ball sized or greater.
- Persistent nausea/vomiting.
- Worsening belly pain.
- Feelings of hopelessness and/or worthlessness.
- Feelings of hurting yourself or your child.
