How-To
This concise guide is meant to serve as a tool for helping CVDoulas and our clients monitor health signs that could indicate serious problems. These tips can help you quickly identify critical health warning signs in the first few weeks after a client welcomes their new baby.
NOTE:Â Remind new parents to trust their instincts and consult a healthcare provider if they notice any concerning symptoms.
Seek Immediate Medical Attention If You Experience:
• Heavy Bleeding: Soaking more than one pad per hour or passing large blood clots.
• Infection Symptoms: Severe abdominal pain, foul-smelling discharge, or fever above 100.4°F.
• Symptoms of High Blood Pressure: Severe headaches, blurred vision, or excessive swelling of hands and face.
• Mental Health Issues: Persistent sadness, thoughts of harming yourself or your baby.
• Signs of Mastitis: Tender, red, or warm breasts, along with fever and chills.
Also, Be Alert For:
• Pain that Doesn't Improve: Persistent or worsening pain.
• Urinary Problems: Difficulty or pain when urinating.
• Leg Issues: Swelling or pain in one leg, which could indicate a clot.
• Breathing Problems: Sudden shortness of breath or rapid breathing.
Seek Immediate Medical Attention If Your Baby:
• Has Trouble Breathing: Pausing in breathing, grunting, or blue-colored skin.
• Struggles with Feeding: Refuses multiple feedings or shows signs of dehydration.
• Has Abnormal Temperatures: Feels too hot (>100.4°F) or too cold (<97.7°F).
• Seems Unusually Sleepy: Hard to wake up or very lethargic.
• Develops Jaundice: Increasing yellowing of the skin or eyes.
Watch for These Behavioral Signs:
• Excessive Crying: Continues despite comfort efforts.
• Decreased Activity: Less movement or muscle tone or is excessively irritable.
• Changes in Appearance: Sudden rashes or skin discolorations.