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Heavy bleeding after birth (postpartum hemorrhage)

Also called: Postpartum hemorrhage, heavy bleeding after birth

Heavy bleeding after childbirth, most often in the first day but possible up to 12 weeks later. It's a leading cause of pregnancy-related deaths and needs emergency care.

WarningSoaking a pad an hour or passing large clots
Up to12 weeks after birth

Overview

Dizziness, a fast heartbeat, or fainting can mean heavy blood loss.

Symptoms

Common signs:

  • Soaking more than a pad an hour
  • Large clots
  • Dizziness or fainting

Less common

  • Fast heartbeat
  • Pale, clammy skin

When to get medical care

Call 911Call 911 now for: soaking more than a pad an hour, large clots, dizziness or fainting.
Get care todayMilder symptoms that could be early signs.
See a doctor soonQuestions about lowering your risk.

Causes

Uterus not tightening, tears, retained placenta.

Does it spread or run in families?

  • It isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone else.

Who is more likely to get it

  • Long labor
  • Large baby
  • Twins

Diagnosis

This is diagnosed in the emergency room or hospital.

The exam

A physical exam.

Tests

Tests, if needed:

  • Exam:
  • Blood count:

Treatment

Emergency care is needed. While waiting for help:

Self-care

  • Call 911
  • Lie down

Which doctor treats this

  • Emergency doctors treat it first, in the ER.
  • They may send you to an OB-GYN or midwife; high-risk pregnancies may see a maternal-fetal medicine doctor.

Living with it

Support groups and helplines

Back to school, work, or sports

  • Recovery time varies. Ask your care team when you can drive, lift, work, and exercise.

For caregivers

  • Go to visits when you can and take notes.
  • Keep a list of medicines, allergies, and doctors in one place.
  • Learn the warning signs that need fast care.
  • Learn CPR. Many hospitals and the Red Cross offer classes.
  • Take breaks and ask for help. Caregivers need care too.

Outlook

Fast treatment saves lives.

Getting ready for your visit

Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.

What to bring

  • A list of your medicines and supplements
  • Notes on when symptoms started and what makes them better or worse

Questions to ask

  • What follow-up care do I need?
  • How can I prevent this from happening again?

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Heavy bleeding after birth (postpartum hemorrhage)

Sources

Last updated 2026-11-12.