As with miscarriage and live birth, the lining of the uterus that had built up during
your pregnancy must be shed. Keep in mind that clots should not be larger than a
small plum. Anything larger could be a sign of a complication, like a small part of the
placenta being retained in your uterus.
Bleeding will start heavily and decrease slowly over time. During this time, you
should use sanitary pads, not tampons, to minimize the risk of infection. You should
also avoid taking baths for the same reason. After a vaginal delivery with a full- or
near-term stillbirth, you may have swelling and soreness of your vulva and perineum.
You also may have small tears or stitches in the area.
Ice packs and good hygiene practices will help with the soreness and swelling, but
you will most likely need some kind of pain medication as well. Medications also can
help with the inevitable cramping which occur as a result of your uterus contracting to
reduce bleeding and as it attempts to return to its pre-pregnant size. Ask your doctor
or midwife if you can take an over-the-counter pain medicine, such as acetaminophen
(Tylenol), ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), or naproxen (Aleve), to ease cramps. Be safe
with medicines.
you may even experience engorgement. To avoid increasing milk production, you
should avoid expressing any milk from your breasts.
Wear a supportive bra—you may even find it more comfortable to wear while
sleeping for the first few days. Also avoid letting hot water run over your breasts
during your shower, as warm water can cause the milk to "let down." Without
stimulation, milk production should taper off naturally after a few days.
Watch for any painful or hardened areas in your breast as well as for redness, fever, or
chills. These can be signs of an infection of one of your milk ducts and may require
antibiotics.
all women should be aware of the signs of infection after any vaginal delivery as well.
They include fever (generally greater than 100.4F), increasing pain, and increased
heavy bleeding.
Another possible sign of infection includes a foul smell to your vaginal discharge.
However, an earthy odor is not unusual just as with menstrual fluid. If you experience
any of the signs or symptoms of infection, you should call your obstetrician or
midwife as soon as possible.
Sexual intercourse should be avoided until your bleeding has stopped and your cervix
is fully closed again. Your physician or midwife will probably want to see you for a
postpartum visit four to six weeks after your delivery and give you the OK to resume
sexual activity if you're ready.
It's no surprise that you'll feel tired after such a dramatic physical change, but the
emotional toll of a stillbirth can also add to your feelings of fatigue. Your healthcare
provider will excuse you from work until you have had some time to recover. It's
important to remember that severe tiredness following a vaginal delivery also could
be a sign of depression. If your fatigue continues for several weeks or interferes with
your life, you need to talk to your doctor.
Other signs of depression can include changes in your eating or sleeping habits, loss
of interest in your normal activities, uncontrollable crying, confusion, and anxiety.
Consult your healthcare provider if you think you might be depressed.