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Some Warning Signs After Birth

Things should go well for you after your baby's birth—you shouldn't feel ill. However, you might occasionally experience a problem. Below is a list of symptoms and warning signs to be alert for. If you experience any of these symptoms, call your doctor. It's important information to share with him or her. Your doctor may want to see you and a course of treatment may be prescribed for you. Be alert for:

• temperature of 101F (38.3C) or more, except in the first 24 hours after birth
• painful or red breasts
• chills
• loss of appetite for an extended period
• pain in the lower abdomen or in the back
• pain, tenderness, redness and/or swelling in your legs
• painful urination or feeling an intense need to urinate
• failure to pass gas or severe constipation (no bowel movements for a few days)
• severe pain in the vagina or perineum area
• unusually heavy bleeding or a sudden increase in bleeding (more than your normal menstrual flow or soaking more than two sanitary pads in 30 minutes)
• vaginal discharge with strong, unpleasant odor