Postpartum Hemorrhage
Definition
Common Problems
Medical & Nursing Intervention
PPH is when a woman is having heavy bleeding after child birth, it is very
serious and when it is left untreated it can lead to complications and even
death.
- Hypovolemic shock: Excessive blood loss can lead to
hypovolemic shock, a life-threatening condition characterized by
inadequate blood flow to vital organs. Symptoms may include
rapid heart rate, low blood pressure, dizziness, confusion, and cold,
clammy skin.
- Anemia: Prolonged or severe postpartum hemorrhage can result in
anemia, a condition characterized by low levels of red blood cells,
leading to fatigue, weakness, shortness of breath, and other
symptoms.
- Delayed recovery: Postpartum hemorrhage can prolong the
recovery period for the mother, leading to increased fatigue,
weakness, and difficulty caring for herself and her newborn.
- Maintaining effective cardiovascular function and preventing
shock: Essential for ensuring adequate tissue perfusion and
oxygenation, reducing the risk of complications such as
hypovolemic shock.
- Regular assessment of vital signs systolic and diastolic blood
pressure, pulse, and heart rate. Check for the capillary refill
and observe nail beds and mucous membranes: Helps monitor
postpartum bleeding, ensuring it decreases over time and
identifying abnormal bleeding patterns or clotting issues.
- Assess for the presence of a vulvar and vaginal hematoma: For
baseline data to compare whether symptoms are getting worse or
better.
- Measure a 24-hour intake and output. Observe for signs of
voiding difficulty: Crucial for identifying potential complications
such as excessive bleeding or tissue trauma.
- Monitor for signs of hypertension, tachycardia, and jugular
vein distention: Indicates potential cardiovascular complications
or fluid overload, which can lead to serious issues if not addressed
promptly.
- Administer medications uterotonic drugs: such as oxytocin,
methylergonovine, Methergine and prostaglandin F2a
- Educate the client and significant others on identifying the
signs and symptoms that need to be reported urgently:
Empowers them to recognize warning signs and seek prompt
medical attention, improving outcomes and reducing the risk of
complications.
 Postpartum Depression

Definition PPD is a type of depression that women get after they give child birth.
People with postpartum depression experience emotional highs and lows,
frequent crying, fatigue, guilt, anxiety and may have trouble caring for
their baby.

Common Problems
● Depressed mood (subjective or observed) is present most of the day
● Loss of interest or pleasure, most of the day
● Insomnia or hypersomnia
● Psychomotor retardation or agitation
● Worthlessness or guilt
● Loss of energy or fatigue
● Suicidal ideation or attempt and recurrent thoughts of death
● Impaired concentration or indecisiveness
● Change in weight or appetite

Medical & Nursing Intervention
- Antidepressant therapy. This would be prescribed by the physician
once the diagnosis of postpartum depression is determined.
- Counseling. Psychological counseling is recommended for a
woman undergoing postpartum depression to let her express her
feelings and restore her psychological health
- Proper assessment of patient after child birth
- Provide knowledge to significant other to check for symptoms a d
what to do to prevent.
 Breast Engorgment

Definition Breast engorgement is swelling, tightness, and an increase in size of the

breasts. It usually occurs in the early days of breastfeeding, between day 3
and 5, but may occur as late as day 9-10. Moderately severe breast
engorgement results in hard, full, tense, warm and tender breasts with
throbbing and aching pain.

Common Problems
● Pain and discomfort: Engorgement can cause breasts to become
swollen, tender, and painful.
● Difficulty latching: The swelling can make it challenging for the
baby to latch properly.
● Milk supply issues: Engorgement can lead to oversupply or
undersupply issues if not addressed promptly.
● Blocked milk ducts: Engorgement can increase the risk of blocked
ducts, which can lead to mastitis if not resolved.
● Reduced milk flow: Engorgement may impede the flow of milk,
making breastfeeding less efficient.
● Frustration and stress: Dealing with engorgement can be
emotionally taxing for mothers and may lead to frustration or
stress.
● Potential breastfeeding complications: Prolonged engorgement can
increase the risk of more severe breastfeeding complications, such
as mastitis or nipple damage.

Medical & Nursing Intervention
- administer OTC medication for pain and discomfort
- Promote frequent breast feeding
- Apply warm compress before breastfeeding to help with milkflow
and afterwards to help relieve swelling
- Educate about proper hygiene