⚠️ Graphic Content Warning:
This video includes real medical images of blood clots used to demonstrate relative size and severity.
In this video, Dr. Sterling walks you through how to monitor postpartum bleeding once you’re home from the hospital—and when it’s time to call your OB or head to OB triage. Many people feel unsure about how much bleeding is too much, or whether passing blood clots means something is wrong. This video helps you understand what’s normal, what’s not, and how to assess clot size in context so you can make informed decisions about your care.
Key Points Covered in the Video:
How much bleeding is too much: If you’re soaking through two pads in an hour and continue bleeding heavily, it’s time to contact your provider.
Understanding blood clots: Small clots—like the size of a grape—are typically not concerning, especially if they’re not accompanied by ongoing bleeding.
Clot size guidance:
Grape-sized clots = generally not concerning if bleeding slows
Plum/golf ball-sized clots = borderline; monitor closely and consider context
Clots that fill the palm or are clearly golf-ball sized or larger = call your OB or head to OB triage
Context matters: It’s not just the size—it’s also how much you’re bleeding afterward that determines whether it’s an emergency.
Triage info: Your local OB triage (same place you’d go in labor) is typically available for postpartum concerns too.