Delayed and secondary postpartum hemorrhage

This code signifies postpartum hemorrhage that occurs more than 24 hours after delivery, extending up to six weeks postpartum. It can be caused by retained placental fragments, uterine subinvolution, or infection, leading to significant blood loss.

Apply this code when documentation clearly indicates a delayed or secondary postpartum hemorrhage event occurring after the initial 24-hour postpartum period. This includes scenarios where a patient presents with new or worsening vaginal bleeding, anemia, or hypovolemia weeks after childbirth.

• Differentiate from primary postpartum hemorrhage (within 24 hours of delivery), which is coded elsewhere.
• Ensure documentation specifies the timing of the hemorrhage relative to delivery to support "delayed" or "secondary."
• Code any underlying cause of the hemorrhage, such as retained placental fragments (O72.1), as an additional diagnosis.