After giving birth, vaginal bleeding called lochia is normal and can last for several weeks as your body sheds blood, mucus, and tissue from the uterus.
Duration and Stages of Postpartum Bleeding
- Typical duration: Postpartum bleeding usually lasts about 4 to 6 weeks, but it can extend up to 8 weeks in some cases
- Stages of lochia:
- Lochia rubra (first 3-4 days): Bright red, heavy bleeding similar to a heavy period, sometimes with small clots
* _Lochia serosa_ (days 4-12): Bleeding becomes lighter, pink or brown in color, with more fluid and less blood
* _Lochia alba_ (from about day 12 up to 6 weeks): Discharge is yellowish-white, mostly mucus and white blood cells, with minimal or no blood
Factors Affecting Bleeding
- Bleeding tends to be heavier immediately after birth and gradually lessens over days and weeks
- Breastfeeding can cause stronger uterine contractions, sometimes increasing bleeding temporarily
- Cesarean deliveries usually result in less bleeding than vaginal births, but bleeding still occurs for several weeks
What to Expect
- Initially, expect to use thick, super-absorbent pads changed every few hours to manage bleeding
- Over time, bleeding lightens and may become spotting before stopping completely by 6 to 8 weeks postpartum
- Periods may return as early as 4-6 weeks postpartum if not breastfeeding, or later if breastfeeding exclusively
When to Seek Medical Attention
- Excessive bleeding (soaking a pad every hour), large clots (larger than a 50p coin), feeling faint, rapid heartbeat, or signs of infection (fever, abdominal pain) require urgent medical care
In summary, postpartum bleeding is a normal process lasting typically 4 to 6 weeks, with a gradual decrease in amount and change in color from bright red to yellowish-white. Individual experiences vary, but bleeding should steadily lessen and eventually stop within two months after delivery
