Postpartum bleeding or
postpartum hemorrhage (
PPH) is often defined as the loss of more than 500 ml or 1,000 ml of blood within the first 24 hours following
childbirth. Some have added the requirement that there also be signs or symptoms of low blood volume for the condition to exist. Signs and symptoms may initially include: an
increased heart rate,
feeling faint upon standing, and an increased breath rate. As more blood is lost the women may feel cold, their blood pressure may drop, and they may become restless or unconscious. The condition can occur up to six weeks following delivery.