# data[].attributes.headline
Important information to know about your meds.

# data[].attributes.subject
Important information to know about your meds.

# data[].attributes.body
Medications given to increase uterine contracture and control bleeding may leave you feeling some cramps or abdominal pain. The sensation can feel similar to having period cramps.

Methylergonovine (Methergine) can cause an increase in blood pressure, so it is not for people with history of preeclampsia or hypertension, (also known as high blood pressure).

Carboprost (Hemabate) is not recommended for patients with asthma. This medication can cause nausea, vomiting or diarrhea. It will often be given with an anti-diarrhea medication to control side effects.

# data[].attributes.body
A fundal massage can feel uncomfortable, and may need to be repeated at regular intervals to ensure bleeding is controlled and the uterus is encouraged to stay firm.

# data[].attributes.body
Your HCP may prescribe medications to help the uterus contract and reduce bleeding. Some medications that may be used are:

Oxytocin (Pitocin)

Methylergonovine (Methergine)

Misoprostol (Cytotec)

Carboprost (Hemabate)

# data[].attributes.headline
My uterus is firm, so why do I still have bleeding?

# data[].attributes.subject
My uterus is firm, so why do I still have bleeding?

# data[].attributes.body
A laceration, or tear, may have happened during the birthing process. Your HCP will provide an assessment of any soft tissue trauma to identify the cause of the bleeding and determine if further interventions are necessary.

# data[].attributes.body
Your nurse, midwife, or HCP may assess your uterus for firmness.
You will use the restroom, if possible, so that a full bladder does not interfere with the assessment.
You will lie on your back while the healthcare provider places a hand over the belly, and one over the lower abdomen to feel the uterus. If the muscles of the uterus are not contracting, they are not able to properly apply pressure to blood vessels and tamper down bleeding. This is known as a "boggy" uterus. At this time, you may receive a fundal massage to help the uterus firm up and control blood flow.

# data[].attributes.body
For the first few days after childbirth, bleeding is usually red or red-brown and you may need to change pads every hour or so. It is normal to also see some clots.

Let your nurse know if you need to change pads more than once per hour, if you have clots larger than golf-ball sized, or if you experience an increase in bleeding.

By days 4-10, expect your bleeding to be tapering off to a lighter flow. Bleeding will become more pinkish or brown tinged.

By days 11-21, bleeding should be further decreased, and you may have a white, cream or light yellow discharge.

If you experience continued heavy bleeding, an increase in bleeding, or a foul smelling discharge, call your HCP.

# data[].attributes.body
Lochia is the medical term for vaginal bleeding after birth. It is normal to have some bleeding after a vaginal birth or a C-section.