During pregnancy, you’re told to keep an eye out for red flags like bleeding, fever, and pelvic pain. But once baby arrives, the focus shifts 100 percent to your newborn, sometimes leaving you in the dark about warning signs you should still be watching for.
At Mahmee, we have always known that maternal health doesn't stop at delivery. The postpartum period, which is often called the "fourth trimester," is a critical time where serious health complications can still happen, but many women and their families aren't really aware of this. That means many women don’t know what to look for, or when to speak up.
Here are five important postpartum red flags to take seriously, according to Mahmee co-founder and healthcare veteran Linda Hanna.
If you notice your blood pressure rising significantly or you feel persistent headaches, blurry vision, or pain under your right ribs, call your doctor immediately. These can be signs of postpartum preeclampsia, a serious condition that can lead to seizures, stroke, or organ damage if untreated.
Even if your pregnancy and delivery were smooth, postpartum preeclampsia can strike up to six weeks after birth. Don’t dismiss those symptoms.
Discharge that smells bad or looks brown may be a sign of infection. Or, if your bleeding suddenly increases or soaks through pads quickly after having slowed down, it could indicate hemorrhage or poor uterine contraction. These are time-sensitive issues so never wait - always get checked. The rule of thumb is that if you're not sure, check with your doctor or care support team because often time is of essence.
You know your body best. If something feels off—pressure, bulging, or a lack of control you didn’t have before, talk to your OB or pelvic floor therapist. These could be signs of pelvic floor trauma or prolapse, both of which are common, treatable, and important not to ignore.
New moms are tired - of course! Show me a mom and I'll show you tired. But if you’re too exhausted to get out of bed, think clearly, or take care of yourself or your baby, this could signal something deeper, like postpartum depression, anemia, or thyroid issues. Speak to your provider about how you're feeling, either mentally and physically. If you're feeling like not yourself, that's something to reach out to someone about.
If you’re suddenly reacting to foods, skincare, or household products you used to tolerate just fine, it’s worth a conversation with your doctor. Hormonal shifts after childbirth can alter your immune response and trigger new sensitivities or allergies, and sometimes they could be part of a broader issue.
Too many moms downplay their symptoms because they’re busy, exhausted, or unsure if it’s “normal.” If something feels off, trust your instincts and speak up. Your health matters, because caring for you is caring for your baby.
And if you're looking for guidance through this transition, Mahmee is here to help. Learn more about our care coordination and support at mahmee.com.
