Q During postpartum recovery my bleeding suddenly increased and large blood clots came out. Should I go to the hospital when this happens?
A If bleeding suddenly becomes heavy or is accompanied by large blood clots or fever, it could be postpartum hemorrhage or infection, requiring immediate care at an obstetrics-gynecology clinic or emergency room. Do not try to manage it with Korean medicine care first; confirm your safety first.
Detailed Answer
The following signs should not be put off with postpartum care or self-management but checked immediately at an obstetrics-gynecology clinic or emergency room: (1) vaginal bleeding suddenly becoming heavy or large blood clots coming out, with bleeding heavy enough to soak more than one pad per hour; (2) accompanying fever of 38 degrees Celsius or higher; (3) one leg becoming swollen and painful, or sudden shortness of breath or chest pain; (4) severe postpartum depression with thoughts of harming the baby or yourself.
Korean Medicine Clinic Perspective
In particular, swelling and pain in the leg or sudden shortness of breath and chest pain can be signs of a blood clot or pulmonary embolism, which are rare after childbirth but can be fatal, requiring emergency response. If severe postpartum depression brings thoughts of self-harm, you must seek psychiatric or emergency care immediately. Dongjedang's postpartum Korean medicine care is, as a principle, carried out only after such warning signs have been ruled out and safety confirmed.
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