2025 ICD-10-CM code O90.81
Anemia of the puerperium. Postpartum anemia NOS.
Medical necessity for the diagnosis and treatment of postpartum anemia is established by the presence of anemia, as evidenced by laboratory findings, and the correlation of the anemia with the postpartum period. The need for treatment, such as iron supplements or blood transfusion, is determined by the severity of the anemia and the patient's clinical presentation.Medical necessity documentation should support the need for interventions beyond routine postpartum care.
Diagnosis and management of anemia in postpartum patients falls under the responsibility of obstetricians, family physicians, or other healthcare providers involved in postpartum care.This includes assessment of the severity of anemia, investigation of the underlying cause, and implementation of appropriate treatment strategies, such as iron supplementation or blood transfusion.
- 15 Pregnancy, childbirth and the puerperium (O00-O9A)
- Complications predominantly related to the puerperium (O85-O92)
In simple words: This code refers to anemia (low red blood cell count) that develops after childbirth.
Anemia occurring in the period following childbirth (puerperium).This code excludes pre-existing anemia complicating the puerperium (O99.03).
Example 1: A 28-year-old woman presents for a routine postpartum check-up six weeks after a vaginal delivery.She reports fatigue and shortness of breath. Blood tests reveal a low hemoglobin and hematocrit, consistent with anemia. The anemia is attributed to blood loss during delivery and is coded as O90.81., A 35-year-old woman experiences a postpartum hemorrhage after a cesarean section.She requires a blood transfusion and is subsequently diagnosed with anemia due to the significant blood loss.This is coded as O90.81., A 25-year-old woman with a history of iron deficiency anemia prior to pregnancy develops worsening anemia in the postpartum period. Though she had pre-existing anemia, the postpartum worsening is significant and requires additional treatment. This is coded as O90.81, as the primary focus is the postpartum manifestation.A secondary code may be used to indicate the history of iron deficiency anemia (D50.9).
Documentation should include evidence of anemia, such as a complete blood count showing low hemoglobin and hematocrit levels. The clinical record should also document the onset of anemia in relation to childbirth, the severity of the anemia, and any associated signs and symptoms.Any treatment provided, such as iron supplementation or blood transfusion, should also be documented.
- Payment Status: Active
- Specialties:Obstetrics and Gynecology, Family Medicine
- Place of Service:Inpatient Hospital, Outpatient Hospital, Office