How common is heavy bleeding after birth in retained placenta?

After the baby is born, the uterus needs to contract around the area where the placenta was attached. If part or all of the placenta remains inside, the uterus may not tighten as it should, and bleeding can continue or become heavy. Tissue may be suspected when the placenta is incomplete or bleeding persists despite an apparently firm recovery.

Retained placental tissue is not the only possible explanation for heavy bleeding after birth. Infection, poor uterine contraction and tears can also contribute. A person with heavy bleeding needs assessment rather than trying to identify the cause from the symptom alone.

Tell the midwife, obstetrician or emergency service immediately if bleeding is heavy, persistent or returns after it had eased. Mention whether the placenta was described as complete, whether you have increasing cramps or pelvic pain, and whether you feel dizzy or weak.

The care team may examine you, check your vital signs and use imaging or other tests when appropriate. Treatment may involve medicines to help the uterus contract, removal of retained tissue or care for another bleeding source. The safest plan depends on the examination and how stable you are.

Call emergency services for rapidly worsening bleeding, fainting, confusion, severe weakness, a racing heartbeat, severe pain or difficulty breathing. Do not travel alone if you feel light-headed. Prompt care matters because ongoing blood loss can become serious before the underlying cause is clear.

Was the placenta complete, and could tissue remain in the uterus? Do I need an examination or ultrasound? What treatment is recommended, and which bleeding or pain changes mean I should return straight away?