What condition requires immediate intervention when noted in a postpartum woman?

Heavy vaginal bleeding in a postpartum woman is a condition that necessitates immediate intervention due to the potential for serious complications, including hypovolemic shock and maternal morbidity. Postpartum hemorrhage is defined as losing more than 500 mL of blood following a vaginal delivery or more than 1000 mL after a cesarean section. It is crucial for healthcare providers to recognize and respond to this situation promptly to manage fluid replacement, monitor vital signs, and identify the source of the bleeding to ensure the safety and health of the mother. Prompt intervention can significantly affect outcomes, reducing the risk of severe complications or death.

In contrast, while moderate headache, excessive swelling, and severe fatigue may also warrant evaluation, they do not typically represent an acute emergency in the same way that heavy vaginal bleeding does. Hence, they are not conditions that require immediate intervention.