Increased bleeding and cramping 11 days post partum

[shivawn]

Hey, just wondering if anyone has experienced anything similar. I gave birth 11 days ago and the bleeding was quite heavy the first couple days and then it tapered off until I was just getting spotting in my pads. This morning it suddenly started bleeding a lot more, bright red blood, no clots. Very like a normal period.

I've had no post partum cramping at all since giving birth until this morning when I woke up with quite significant abdominal cramps. I took some tramadol (been prescribed for my episiotomy wound) and a hot bath and they eased off but they're still there in the background. They don't get any worse when I breast feed. I know that cramping is common after labour but has anyone had the cramps start so long after giving birth?

It actually feels like a period with the cramps and fresh blood but I know its too soon for that. Can't call my GP at the weekend.

Any signs of infection- temp, shivering, feeling unwell? Does the blood loss smell?

Did you do more physically yesterday, longer walk for example? Bleeding often becomes heavier the day after increased activity.

You can contact 111 for a phone back from a clinician.

Possible retained product? I had this and passed a (tmi) chunk of umbilical cord (long story short I had a retained placenta and a manual removal from hell for them I was passed out for most of it)

Do you have the MW’s number ?

It is possible to have a period as soon as you stop bleeding I think mine came immediately after but my bleeding lasted longer

I would call 111 to check with them and keep an eye on your signs of infection temperature etc

As bad as it sounds you need to check if your discharge smells because they usually ask

Thanks guys, I'll give them a call.

Hope you got on ok today

Just to update, turns out the cramps were constipation. I haven't been going as often as usual because of the pain from the episiotomy but I took a senocot, had a big movement and the cramps disappeared pretty quickly! As for the bleeding they said it can happen that it will stop and start within the first few weeks and just to keep an eye on it to make sure there's no clots or its not getting too heavy.

Aww thank goodness! I remember being in agony on post natal ward then I let rip with a huge amount of gas I was mortified they opened a window for me (I was attached to.the bed by a drip at the time) and bought me a mobile stand in case I "needed to go anywhere" having children is embarrassing

@Theunamedcat Hahaha oh dear, as long as you got some relief it was worth it I'd say!