MDWF 3050
This course covers physical and psychological complications that may arise during the postpartum period. Case studies are utilized to demonstrate the application of clinical judgment and management within the scope of care of the Certified Professional Midwife.
Learning Objectives:
At the completion of this course, the students will be able to demonstrate knowledge and skills in the following areas:
- Clinical management of complications in the first few hours after birth.
- Clinical management of complications in the first eight weeks after birth.
- Complications in the postpartum period including when to refer to other care providers and when to activate EMS.
- Clinical management of the following conditions:
● Postpartum Hypertension and Preeclampsia
● Endometritis
● PP hemorrhage
● Cystocele
● Rectocele -incontinence (feces or urine) and fistula, bowel problems
● Urinary retention - principles of elimination, management-micturition & catheterization
● Perineal pain and dyspareunia
● Retained products of conception, D + E
● Subinvolution
● Gallbladder disease
● Cesarean recovery including wound infection, principles of infection control-need to obtain swab, principles
of wound management-principles of wound healing
● Postpartum thyroid conditions
● Mastitis/Cellulitis
● Hematoma
● Postpartum hemorrhage/late postpartum hemorrhage
● DVT/Thrombophlebitis/PE
● UTI/Kidney Infection/Cystitis/Urethritis
● Postpartum Mood Disorders including PP depression, PP Anxiety, PP OCD, and PP psychosis
● Mental illness and complex childhood trauma/PTSD
● Maternal HIB, HIV, TB, Hep B and C including prevention of transmission to midwives and assistants
● Postpartum anemia
- Management of the following:
● Substance abuse risk factors
● Child abuse/neglect risk factors
● Domestic partner abuse
● Transport etiquette
- Management of birth trauma associated with:
● Shoulder dystocia
● PP hemorrhage
● Manual removal of placenta
● Fetal demise
● Family and others showing up uninvited not behaving appropriately during birth
● Mismatch for the client of their attendant/midwife/student
● Sexual abuse trauma arising during birth
Midwifery College of Utah. (2026, Winter). Mdwf 3050 Complications of the Postpartum Period [Course Syllabus] Available from midwifery.edu