How long can postpartum hemorrhage occur after delivery?

Postpartum hemorrhage can occur in the first few weeks following delivery, but it is most commonly defined as excessive bleeding that occurs within the first 24 hours (primary), or within the first 6 weeks (secondary) after delivery.

The correct answer indicates a timeframe that aligns with the recognized period for early postpartum recovery. While the majority of significant bleeding occurs shortly after delivery, it is still possible for some women to experience postpartum hemorrhage symptoms beyond the initial week, particularly in the first two weeks as the body adjusts and the uterine tone returns to normal.

The other timeframes provided in the options either go beyond the typical medical understanding regarding significant bleeding following childbirth or do not align as well with established classifications of postpartum hemorrhage. Thus, recognizing that excessive bleeding can occur up to two weeks is essential for screening and managing patient care in the postpartum period.