1. Blood clotting factors are extensively Activated

This occurs in the postpartum period, and is the reason why patients are at an increase risk of thrombophlebitis and thromboembolism.

2. 12lbs after delivery & 5lbs postpartum

These are the amounts of weight loss experienced after delivery and during the post partum period.

3. Vital Signs: Bradycardia

This change in vital signs during the postpartum period is common for the first 6-8 days. It returns to pre-pregnancy levels by 3 months.

4. Vital Signs: Tachycardia

This change in vitals is related to increase blood loss, elevated temperature, or difficult, prolonged labor and birth.

5. Vital Signs: Respirations

This vital sign usually remains at normal levels.

6. Orthostatic Hypotension

This situation is evidenced by faintness, dizziness, especially after standing up. It usually occurs in the 1st 48 hours.

7. Hypovolemic Shock due to Hemorrhage

A low falling BP may indicate this.

8. Retained Fragments

Persistent Lochia Rubra may indicate this.

9. Endometritis (Inflammation of the endometrium)

Persistent Lochia alba & serosa may indicate this.

10. Lochia Rubra (1-2 Days)

The appearance of this type of Lochia (# of days of occurrence) is dark red, bloody and fleshy, musty stale odor that is non-offensive. There may be clots present, smaller than a nickel.