What are the postpartum warning signs I shouldn't ignore?
Heavy bleeding, severe headache, chest pain, fever, leg swelling, or thoughts of harming yourself or your baby are emergencies. Call 911 or your provider immediately.
The CDC's "Hear Her" campaign lists urgent postpartum warning signs:
Call 911
- Chest pain or trouble breathing
- Seizures
- Thoughts of harming yourself or your baby
- Heavy bleeding that soaks a pad in an hour
Call your provider right away
- Severe headache that won't go away
- Vision changes
- Fever ≥ 100.4°F (38°C)
- Painful, swollen, or red leg
- Incision that won't heal or is hot/swollen
- Severe belly pain
Postpartum mood symptoms — sadness, hopelessness, intrusive thoughts — are common and treatable. Reach out early.
Educational content based on CDC guidance. Always confirm with your provider.