Little Rock Postpartum Negligence Attorneys

What are some common postpartum complications?

Sometimes, complications after childbirth are natural and manageable, but others are more dangerous and require prompt medical care. Here are some of the most common postpartum conditions that can lead to injury or death if not treated properly.

• Excessive bleeding after birth (postpartum hemorrhage) is one of the leading causes of maternal death. It can occur immediately after delivery or even days later. Signs include heavy vaginal bleeding (soaking a pad every hour), dizziness or fainting, and a drop in blood pressure or a rapid heartbeat. Doctors must act quickly to stop the bleeding, often with medications, surgery, or blood transfusions.
• If the uterus or incision site (especially after a C-section) becomes infected, it can quickly spread and lead to sepsis, which is a life-threatening condition. Signs can include fever or chills, foul-smelling discharge, pain in the abdomen or pelvis, and rapid breathing or confusion. Ignoring these signs or failing to prescribe antibiotics can be deadly.
• Preeclampsia typically begins during pregnancy, but it can also develop after birth. It causes high blood pressure and can lead to seizures, stroke, or organ damage. Signs to watch for include severe headaches, vision problems, swelling in the hands or face, and high blood pressure.
• After giving birth, women are at an increased risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or pulmonary embolism. A clot in the lungs can be fatal. Symptoms may include chest pain or shortness of breath, swelling or pain in one leg, and rapid heartbeat. This risk can be higher for women who had C-sections, limited mobility, or a history of blood clotting issues.
• While not always seen as medical emergencies, conditions like postpartum depression, anxiety, or psychosis can have life-altering consequences. When doctors fail to screen for, diagnose, or treat these conditions, mothers can suffer in silence.