What symptom should a postpartum patient immediately report to a healthcare provider?

A postpartum patient should immediately report heavy bleeding or a severe headache to a healthcare provider because these symptoms can indicate potentially serious complications. Heavy bleeding, known as postpartum hemorrhage, may occur due to retained placental fragments, uterine atony, or other conditions requiring prompt medical attention. Severe headache could signify complications such as preeclampsia or a cerebrospinal fluid leak, which can lead to serious health risks if not addressed quickly. Monitoring these symptoms closely is essential to ensure the patient’s safety and well-being during the postpartum period. Other symptoms, while they may warrant attention, do not typically represent the immediate dangers that heavy bleeding or a severe headache do, allowing for a more stable approach to care without the urgent need for intervention.