Lochia is the vaginal discharge that occurs after childbirth and is made up of blood, mucus, uterine tissue, and other materials from the uterus. It is essentially the shedding of the uterine lining after giving birth. Lochia has three stages, and the duration of each stage and the way it looks can vary. The three stages of lochia are:
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Lochia rubra: This is the first stage of lochia and lasts for three to four days. It is characterized by dark or bright red blood that flows like a heavy period. Small clots are normal, and mild, period-like cramping may occur.
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Lochia serosa: This is the second stage of lochia and typically lasts from day four to day ten after giving birth. During this stage, the discharge becomes pink or brownish in color and is thinner than in the first stage.
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Lochia alba: This is the final stage of lochia and can last up to six weeks after giving birth. The discharge during this stage is typically white or yellowish in color and may be thinner and more watery than in the previous stages.
Lochia is a normal part of the postpartum period, and it is the bodys way of getting rid of the extra blood and tissue in the uterus that helped the baby grow. It is important to practice good hygiene during this time and to contact a healthcare provider if the discharge has a foul smell or if there are any concerns about the amount or color of the discharge.
