Postpartum Bleeding: What's Normal and When Should I Be Concerned?
Source: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/22485-lochia
After welcoming your precious little one into the world, you may notice something called lochia – a vaginal discharge that occurs as your body heals after childbirth. But what exactly is lochia, and what should you expect during this time?
What Is Lochia?
Lochia is the name for the vaginal discharge that happens after giving birth. It's a mix of blood, mucus, uterine tissue, and more. While it may have a familiar smell similar to menstrual period discharge, don't worry; it's a normal part of the postpartum healing process and usually doesn't cause any complications.
What Does Lochia Look Like?
Lochia goes through three stages, and its appearance can change over time. Initially, it's dark or bright red and may contain small clots. You might need to use thick maxi pads every two to three hours to manage the heavy flow. After about a week, it becomes lighter and turns pinkish-brown. Finally, around 10 to 14 days, lochia transitions to a creamy, yellowish-white color, and you may only need thin panty liners.
What Is Lochia Made Of?
Lochia is essentially your body's way of "spring cleaning" your uterus, getting rid of blood, tissue, amniotic fluid, bacteria, and more. So, it's no surprise that it smells like menstrual blood. But, if you notice an extremely foul or fishy odor, it's best to reach out to your healthcare provider, as it could be a sign of infection.
How Long Does Lochia Last?
The duration of lochia can vary from person to person, but typically it lasts about six weeks. Some individuals might continue to have traces of lochia for up to eight weeks.
How Is Lochia Different From Period Blood?
Though there are some similarities between lochia and menstrual period blood, they have some key differences. Both start as dark red, heavy discharges, but lochia lasts much longer. A typical period lasts about a week, while lochia can persist for about six weeks.
When to Call the Doctor
Lochia is generally not a cause for concern. However, there are signs of abnormal bleeding or discharge that you should be aware of. Contact your healthcare provider if you experience:
Greenish vaginal discharge.
Foul-smelling odor worse than your usual period.
Excessive bleeding or discharge (soaking a pad every hour).
Large clots or excessive clotting.
Fever, chills, or flu-like symptoms.
Swelling or pain around your vaginal area.
Dizziness or faintness.
Excessive cramping or pelvic pain.
Remember, lochia is a natural part of postpartum recovery. Your body just needs some time to heal, so take it easy and get the rest you deserve. If you ever have concerns, your healthcare provider is there to help.
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The content on this site is for informational purposes only and not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Discuss any health or feeding concerns with your infant’s pediatrician. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay it based on the content on this page.