Postpartum Pelvic Symptoms: When Imaging Might Be Recommended (and what to do next)

Postpartum recovery can feel like a strange mash-up of I’m healing” and Is this normal?” Some pelvic symptoms are expected as your body resets after birth. Others are signs you should call your OB/GYN ASAP and sometimes that evaluation includes imaging (most commonly an ultrasound).

Atlanta Ultrasound is a boutique ultrasound studio in Atlanta. We’re big on care, clarity, and calm but we’re not an emergency clinic and we don’t treat postpartum complications. If you’re worried, your OB/ER is the right first stop. If your provider recommends imaging or you need pregnancy ultrasound support, we’ll help you navigate the next step.

What can be normal postpartum

Common normal (especially early on)

• Mild to moderate pelvic soreness or pressure

• Cramping, especially while breastfeeding (your uterus is contracting back down)

• Bleeding that gradually lightens over time

• A feeling of heaviness in the pelvic floor as tissues recover

Not “just postpartum”

• Bleeding that suddenly gets heavier again after improving

• Passing very large clots or soaking pads quickly

• Fever, chills, or flu-like weakness

• Foul-smelling discharge

• Severe pelvic or abdominal pain that doesn’t let up

• Dizziness, fainting, chest pain, shortness of breath

• One leg swelling/pain/redness

If you recognize yourself in that second list, don’t negotiate with it. Call your OB urgently or go to the ER.

When imaging might be recommended (what doctors are looking for)

Imaging isn’t a punishment. It’s a shortcut to answers, especially when symptoms overlap with normal postpartum healing.

1) Heavy bleeding or large clots

Your provider may order imaging to check for causes of postpartum bleeding like retained tissue or other uterine changes that need treatment.

2) Fever , pelvic tenderness and abnormal discharge

This combination can suggest infection. Imaging may be used to rule out contributing issues (like retained tissue) and help guide care.

3) Sharp, one-sided, sudden pelvic pain

Sometimes pelvic pain is muscular and healing-related. Sometimes it isn’t. Ultrasound can help narrow down what’s going on.

4) Worsening pain after a C-section

If pain escalates instead of improving or comes with fever or heavy bleeding your provider may order imaging to check for complications that can happen after surgery.

5) Something feels off and symptoms are not improving

If you’re worsening instead of slowly getting better, that trend matters. Imaging may be part of the workup even if symptoms don’t fit a neat box.

What imaging is usually used postpartum?

• Ultrasound is often the first step because it’s quick and doesn’t involve radiation.

• CT or MRI may be recommended in more urgent or complex situations—especially if your provider needs a broader view or clearer detail.

Translation: your provider chooses the tool that matches the risk level and the question they’re trying to answer.

What to expect if your provider orders an ultrasound

Most pelvic ultrasounds are straightforward:

• You may be asked to arrive with a full bladder (depending on the exam)

• Sometimes a transvaginal ultrasound is recommended for clearer detail

• The sonographer captures images; your provider interprets them and discusses results with you

Important: ultrasound shows images, it doesn’t replace your clinician’s evaluation. Postpartum bodies can look “normal” in ways that still feel awful, and sometimes the reverse is true. The full clinical picture matters.

Where Atlanta Ultrasound fits in

Here’s the clean truth:

• If you have urgent warning signs, go to your OB/ER first.

• If your provider recommends imaging and you’re in the Atlanta area, contact Atlanta Ultrasound and we’ll tell you whether your exam type is one we offer and how to prepare.

• If you’re currently pregnant and need 2D/3D/4D pregnancy imaging, we’re built for that calm environment, supportive team, and a memorable experience.

We don’t diagnose postpartum conditions or provide emergency care. What we can do is help you move from anxiety to a clear next step, fast.

A simple decision guide

• Mild + improving → likely normal healing; keep monitoring

• Persistent or worsening → call your OB; ask whether imaging is needed

• Heavy bleeding, severe pain, fever, fainting, breathing issues, one-leg swelling → ER now

Ready for the next step?

If your provider has recommended ultrasound or you’re unsure what kind of ultrasound you need , reach out to Atlanta Ultrasound. We’ll help you figure out the right path and preparation steps without the runaround.

For those seeking expert ultrasound services, Atlanta Ultrasound offers quick, efficient, and comprehensive scans. Our team of skilled professionals is dedicated to providing you with the clarity and care you need.

Contact us today to schedule your ultrasound scan and take a decisive step towards understanding your health.

📍 Multiple locations in Metro Atlanta, GA

📞 Contact: 678-590-3300

🌐 Website:www.atlantaultrasound.com

Disclaimer: The content of this blog post, authored by a sonographer, is provided for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as medical advice, nor should it substitute for professional medical consultation, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health providers with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or health concerns.