4 wks PP, feels like nonstop mentrual cramps. Normal?

[editornj]

I'm exclusively breastfeeding and I've had bright red spotting for about a week. The lochia tapered off then the bright red started. I even have some low back pain (and headache, which I normally never have). I'm quick to blame discomfort on lack of sleep. Do you think there is anything to worry about. Midwife knows about the red blood, and just said to call if the bleeding gets really heavy.

Thanks!!!

[olive&pimiento]

Any sign of infection such as fever or elevated pulse? Does the discharge have a foul odor? How long until your postpartum visit?

[editornj]

No fever (98), haven't checked pulse. I'm not sure about odor, I mean, it doesn't smell like flowers.

Appointment is Tuesday. Is the rule of thumb that as long as there is no heavy bleeding, things should be fine?

(I also took 6 doses of Methergine at the hospital after the birth.)

[onlyboys]

Well, even with not heavy bleeding, there can still be an issue. I had retained a piece of tissue after birth which caused bleeding past 6 weeks postpartum.

How are you FEELING? I felt crappy and worn down until the fragment was out. I just didn't feel RIGHT, you know?

[Maggi315]

my guess, and it's only a guess is retained placenta, an ultrasound should be helpful to detect that, you probably need more methergine if that's the case. And a blood test to rule out infection. Good luck, update us!

[editornj]

OK, I just woke up and there is redness all over my chest, not itchy. Unrelated? Gosh, I feel so paranoid!

[mwherbs]

I wouldn't wait until Tuesday, call the mw ASAP and consider going to emergency care- this doesn't sound normal.

[editornj]

Temp is 97.1, pulse is normal (68)... Flushed chest subsided. Thank you, I will call tomorrow. I have a feeling I'm being paranoid, and looking for symptoms. I appreciate all the help.

[dewi]

No, You're not being paranoid you are being appropriately mindful of your well being after giving birth.

[mountainmidwife]

I have seen this several times. I think it is very common for the lochia to stop and then to start having bright red bleeding again around 5 weeks pp. As for the headaches and pain...well....maybe you are doing to much and you need to take a rest. Are you still drinking your pregnancy tea? I would highly recommend continuing (or starting if you haven't been drinking it). I have a wonderful tea that is totally organic and is wonderfully delicious and nutritious. If you would like some PM me.
We moms have the tendency to put ourselves last in line for care. It is very important for you to take care of yourself during this time. Drink plenty of water and pregnancy tea, get lots of rest and remember that your body is still healing from your birth so you must be patient and not do too much.

[Jane]

Have you called/been seen yet?

More worried about the constant cramping than the bleeding, that and the off-ness (headache).

[mountainmidwife]

I had an after thought....

Did you have an epidural? It is fairly common to get a headache from them...

[editornj]

No epidural. Playing phone tag with midwife. Appointment still Tuesday.

General overall crappy feeling would probably improve with some much-needed sleep. And, sheepishly, I have to admit that constipation might be the culprit.