ICD-10 Coding for Postpartum(O90.6, O72.2)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Postpartum. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Postpartum
O85-O92Primary Range
Complications predominantly related to the puerperium
This range covers complications that occur during the postpartum period, including infections, hemorrhage, and mood disturbances.
Encounter for maternal postpartum care and examination
This range is used for routine postpartum care visits and examinations.
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| O90.6 | Postpartum mood disturbance | Use when mood disturbance is documented as related to postpartum hormonal changes. |
|
| O72.2 | Delayed postpartum hemorrhage | Use for significant bleeding occurring 24 hours to 6 weeks postpartum. |
|
Clinical Decision Support
Always review the patient's clinical documentation thoroughly. When in doubt, choose the more specific code and ensure documentation supports it.
Key Information: ICD-10 code for postpartum depression
Essential facts and insights about Postpartum
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for postpartum
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Mood disturbance onset within 6 weeks postpartum
documentation Criteria
- Provider note linking mood symptoms to postpartum period
Applicable To
- Postpartum depression
- Postpartum anxiety
Excludes
- Major depressive disorder (F32.-)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Documented mood disturbance within 6 weeks postpartum
- PHQ-9 score indicating depression
Code-Specific Risks
- Misclassification with general depression codes
Coding Notes
- Ensure documentation clearly links mood disturbance to postpartum period.
O72.2 - Delayed postpartum hemorrhage
Use for significant bleeding occurring 24 hours to 6 weeks postpartum.
Applicable To
- Bleeding 24 hours to 6 weeks postpartum
Excludes
- Immediate postpartum hemorrhage (O72.0)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Documented blood loss >500 mL
- Hemoglobin drop >2 g/dL
Coding Notes
Ensure documentation specifies timing and volume of blood loss.
Differential Codes
Alternative codes to consider when ruling out similar conditions to the primary diagnosis.
Documentation & Coding Risks
Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Postpartum to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code O90.6.
Impact
Clinical: Potential for misdiagnosis, Regulatory: Non-compliance with coding standards, Financial: Loss of reimbursement for specific services
Mitigation Strategy
Document specific blood loss volume, Include clinical assessment details
Impact
Reimbursement: Incorrect reimbursement for mental health services, Compliance: Non-compliance with ICD-10 guidelines, Data Quality: Inaccurate clinical data representation
Mitigation Strategy
Use O90.6 when depression is linked to postpartum period.
Impact
Risk of incorrect coding due to vague documentation
Mitigation Strategy
Use standardized assessment tools and detailed documentation
Documentation errors, coding pitfalls, and audit risks are interconnected aspects of medical coding and billing. Addressing all three areas helps ensure accurate coding, optimal reimbursement, and regulatory compliance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about ICD-10 coding for Postpartum, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Postpartum
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Postpartum. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Postpartum discharge summary
Specialty: ObstetricsRequired Elements
- Vital signs
- Lochia description
- Perineal status
- Mood assessment
- Patient education
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
Need help with ICD-10 coding for Postpartum? Ask your questions below.