Postpartum Bleeding and Left Abdominal Pain: What Could Be Wrong?

After childbirth, menstruation has resumed, but there has been intermittent bleeding along with left lower abdominal pain?

On December 28, I had a natural delivery, and the lochia lasted about five weeks.
My menstruation started on February 10 and ended on February 17.
On February 20, I had intercourse, and then experienced heavy bleeding.
I went to a nearby obstetrician-gynecologist, who said there was nothing wrong and prescribed me with three days of hemostatic medication.
On February 26, after using the restroom, I inexplicably bled again (about the amount typical for the third day of menstruation), not too much, not too little.
However, the bleeding stopped by March 2, but I have been experiencing continuous cramping pain in my lower left abdomen.
What could be the cause of my condition? I really want to see another doctor, but I don't know whom to consult.
I absolutely will not return to the doctor who delivered my baby! During the delivery, I overheard the doctor and other medical staff discussing how my uterus was not contracting and that my pelvic cavity was not adequately opened, which made the delivery difficult.
They also mentioned severe tearing, which left me shocked.
My condition clearly indicated a need for a cesarean section, and I had repeatedly discussed the possibility of a C-section, but the doctor ignored me! The baby's head was two weeks larger than the body, and I have a hereditary history of asthma, which flared up twice during pregnancy! I was dilated one centimeter for four days and one and a half centimeters for another four days, but they were unwilling to let me go into labor.
After my water broke, the hospital allowed me to labor for 12 hours before the doctor finally moved me to the delivery room, constantly saying I was not breathing well and suggesting I wait until I could breathe better to deliver.
The doctor was aware of my asthma! In the end, I delivered using vacuum extraction! The anesthesiologist also administered the pain relief incorrectly, and I had to endure two injections.

Eva, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/03/03

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, I apologize for not being able to provide a diagnosis based on what you've described.
It is possible that your postpartum menstruation has not yet normalized.
If you continue to experience discomfort, I recommend consulting another obstetrician-gynecologist.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2017/03/03

More Info

Postpartum bleeding and persistent left abdominal pain can be concerning symptoms that may indicate several underlying issues. Given your recent history of childbirth and the complications you experienced during labor, it is essential to consider various potential causes for your symptoms.

Firstly, postpartum hemorrhage can occur due to several reasons, including uterine atony (failure of the uterus to contract effectively), retained placental tissue, or lacerations in the birth canal. You mentioned that your doctor noted your uterus was not contracting well after delivery, which could suggest that uterine atony might be a contributing factor to your bleeding. Retained placental fragments can also lead to continued bleeding and may cause abdominal pain as the body attempts to expel these tissues.

The left abdominal pain you are experiencing could be related to several factors. One possibility is that it could be due to the healing process of your uterus and surrounding tissues after childbirth. As the uterus contracts and shrinks back to its normal size, it can cause discomfort and pain, particularly if there were any complications during delivery, such as significant tearing or lacerations.

Another consideration is the possibility of an infection, such as endometritis, which is an infection of the uterine lining that can occur postpartum. Symptoms of endometritis may include fever, foul-smelling discharge, and abdominal pain. If you have any fever or unusual discharge, it is crucial to seek medical attention promptly.

Additionally, if you experienced any complications during labor, such as a significant tear or surgical intervention, there could be issues related to those injuries. Scar tissue formation or adhesions can lead to chronic pain in the abdominal area. Given your history of a difficult delivery, it may be worth discussing these concerns with a healthcare provider who specializes in postpartum care or a gynecologist who can perform a thorough evaluation.

It is also important to consider the psychological aspect of your experience. Traumatic birth experiences can lead to anxiety and stress, which may manifest as physical symptoms, including abdominal pain. If you find that your pain is accompanied by feelings of anxiety or distress, it may be beneficial to speak with a mental health professional who specializes in postpartum care.

In terms of seeking further medical attention, it is advisable to consult with a different obstetrician or gynecologist who can provide a fresh perspective on your situation. You may want to request a pelvic ultrasound or other imaging studies to assess for any retained tissue or other abnormalities. Blood tests may also be warranted to check for signs of infection or anemia due to blood loss.

In summary, your symptoms of postpartum bleeding and left abdominal pain could be attributed to several factors, including uterine atony, retained placental tissue, infection, or complications from delivery. It is essential to seek further evaluation from a qualified healthcare provider who can assess your condition thoroughly and recommend appropriate treatment. Your health and well-being are paramount, and addressing these symptoms promptly is crucial for your recovery.

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