Postpartum Complications: Everything You Need to Know

As new mothers struggle with the challenges of pregnancy and childbirth, it's not uncommon for many things to go wrong after delivery. Some of the postpartum complications are minor and can be taken care of at home while others need emergency medical intervention. There are a number of complications that a mother would want to be aware of in order to handle them accordingly. This blog will look at the list of postpartum complications that new mothers may face after giving birth.

1. Excessive bleeding

Postpartum bleeding, caused by uterine atony, is a condition that typically occurs after a woman has had a baby and her uterus does not contract properly to stop the bleeding. Bleeding from postpartum atony may become excessive and cause the woman to stop producing enough blood for her body. This type of bleeding may lead to anemia, a condition in which the body has an inadequate supply of red blood cells. Anemia may cause a woman to feel fatigued and weak, and she may have difficulty carrying out her daily activities. If anemia is not properly treated, it may lead to other complications.

2. Infection or sepsis

Sepsis is a complication that can happen after delivery by cesarean section or after a normal delivery. It is caused by the release of bacteria from the birth canal and into the bloodstream, which sends the whole body into a state of inflammation. The body starts producing chemicals to fight the infection, but these chemicals sometimes end up killing the body's tissue. This can cause the blood pressure to drop and the blood vessels to leak fluid into the body. It is one of the most life-threatening postpartum complications and the mortality rate associated with sepsis is high.

3. Postpartum depression and anxiety

Postpartum depression is a type of depression that can occur following the birth of a child. It affects an estimated 5% to 20% of women after delivery. Postpartum depression can affect any woman regardless of age, race, income, education, culture, or marital status. Postpartum depression and anxiety are the most common form of postpartum mood disorders. In these cases, a woman may feel extreme sadness, hopelessness, irritability, and mood swings. She may also feel less interested in her partner and can also feel the urge to harm the baby. Postpartum mood disorders are real, and they are common.

4. Stroke

A stroke is a sudden loss of brain function because of an interruption in blood flow to the brain. In pregnant women, stroke is one of the severe postpartum complications. Common causes of stroke during pregnancy or in the postpartum period include heart disease, high blood pressure, and blood clots. Clots, are usually related to pregnancy, but can also happen after childbirth. The risk of stroke increases in the postpartum period and for several weeks after delivery.

5. Cardiomyopathy and heart disease

Cardiomyopathy is one of the possible complications of pregnancy. It is triggered by the hormonal changes in the mother’s body and the demand of the growing baby for oxygen. In some cases, specific drugs or infections may also be a contributing factor. The condition is relatively common and is the first cause of heart disease in women. The disease causes the heart to stiffen and the muscle to thicken which makes it harder for the heart to pump blood around the body. This can lead to heart failure and may even cause death.

6. Pulmonary embolism

Pulmonary embolism is caused by the formation of blood clots, usually in the legs, which then travel to the lungs. Blood clots can form in the deep veins of the legs in people who have been hospitalized, who have just had surgery, or who are bedridden. When a person gets up too quickly from a lying position blood can pool in the veins of the legs and tiny clots can form in the pooled blood. These clots are usually dissolved by the body's natural mechanism, but if a clot breaks off, it can travel to the lungs where it blocks the flow of blood to the lungs and creates a very dangerous situation. Blood clots in the lungs are one of the postpartum complications that can occur any time within thirty days of childbirth.

You may also like: What is postpartum hemorrhage?

Other medical conditions often reflect pre-existing illnesses

Finally, there are certain preexisting medical conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, obesity, and cardiac diseases that put new mothers at risk of developing postpartum complications far more likely than those who don’t have these.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, postpartum complications are a serious concern that all expectant mothers should be aware of. It is important to understand the potential risks and symptoms associated with these complications in order to seek immediate medical attention. From excessive bleeding to infections and mental health issues, postpartum complications can have a significant impact on both the mother and the baby. However, with proper prenatal care, early detection, and prompt treatment, many of these complications can be effectively managed or even prevented altogether.

Remember, postpartum complications are not something to be ignored or taken lightly. It is crucial for healthcare providers, family members, and society as a whole to prioritize the well-being of new mothers during this vulnerable period. By raising awareness and providing support, we can ensure that every woman has a safe and healthy postpartum experience.

References

1. Yaya Tessema G, Ayele G, Fikadu Tessema K, Gendisha Ukke G, Godana Boynito W. (2023). Knowledge of postpartum complications and associated factors among women who gave birth in the last 12 months in Arba Minch Town, Southern Ethiopia, 2019: A community-based cross-sectional study. PLoS One

2. Boushra M, Rahman O. Postpartum Infection. (2022). In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing