You’ve just brought a beautiful new life into the world. You’re probably exhausted, overjoyed, and maybe a little overwhelmed. Amidst all the new baby snuggles and learning curves, you might notice something else: vaginal discharge. This is completely normal, and it’s called lochia. It’s your body’s way of healing after pregnancy and childbirth. I know, bleeding might be the last thing you want to think about right now, but understanding lochia can help you feel more confident during your postpartum recovery.
What Exactly is Lochia?
So, what is this lochia we’re talking about? Think of it as your body’s natural “spring cleaning” after pregnancy. Your uterus, which grew and changed so much to house your baby, now needs to return to its pre-pregnancy state. Lochia is a mix of blood, mucus, and tissue from the lining of your uterus (we call this the endometrium). It has a distinct, kind of stale or musty smell, a bit like your usual period. Don’t worry, that’s typical.
This discharge is a sign that your body is doing exactly what it needs to do. It’s all part of the healing journey.
The Three Stages of Lochia
Lochia doesn’t stay the same; it changes over several weeks, and we usually see it happen in three stages. Everyone’s experience is a bit different, but here’s a general idea:
- Stage 1: Lochia Rubra
- This is what you’ll see first, usually for about 3 to 4 days after birth.
- What it looks like: Dark or bright red blood. It can be quite heavy, like a heavy period.
- Clots: You might pass some small clots, generally smaller than a R5 coin.
- Feeling: You might also feel some mild, period-like cramping. This can be more noticeable if you’re breastfeeding, as that helps your uterus contract. You’ll likely be soaking a thick maternity pad every two to three hours.
- Stage 2: Lochia Serosa
- This stage typically kicks in from around day 4 and can last until about day 12 postpartum.
- What it looks like: The discharge will turn a pinkish-brown color. It’s thinner, more watery, and less bloody than lochia rubra.
- Flow: The flow will be more moderate.
- Clots: You’ll see fewer clots, or maybe none at all.
- Stage 3: Lochia Alba
- This is the final stage, usually starting around day 12 and can last up to six weeks after you’ve had your baby. Sometimes, a little bit can linger for up to eight weeks.
- What it looks like: The discharge becomes a yellowish-white color.
- Flow: It’s much lighter, more like spotting. You might just need a thin panty liner.
- Clots: There shouldn’t be any blood or clots at this point.
How Long Does Lochia Last?
All in all, you can expect lochia to last for up to six weeks, though, as I said, some light discharge can sometimes go on for a bit longer. The truly bloody part, though, usually settles down within about two weeks.
And if you’ve had a C-section? You’ll still experience lochia. It might be a little less in volume compared to a vaginal delivery, but you’ll still go through the same color changes over several weeks.
When Should I Be Concerned About My Lochia?
Most of the time, lochia is just a normal part of healing, and it resolves on its own. But it’s good to know what to watch out for. Sometimes, things don’t go quite as planned.
Give us a call if you notice any of these:
- Bright red bleeding (lochia rubra) that lasts for more than a week. This could indicate your uterus isn’t shrinking back as it should (a condition we call subinvolution).
- Discharge that turns greenish or has a really foul, fishy smell (different from that normal musty period-like odor).
- Bleeding that’s soaking through a thick pad every hour or passing very large clots (bigger than a golf ball).
- Fever, chills, or flu-like symptoms.
- Increasing pain or swelling around your vaginal area.
- Feeling dizzy, lightheaded, or like you might faint.
- Excessive cramping or pelvic pain that feels worse than typical period pain.
These symptoms could be a sign of something more serious, like an infection in the uterine lining (endometritis), retained placental tissue (retained placenta), or your uterus not contracting properly (uterine atony). These things need prompt medical attention, so please don’t hesitate to reach out.
What if the bleeding stops and then starts again? Well, lochia discharge might fluctuate a bit in flow, especially with activity, but true bloody discharge shouldn’t completely stop and then restart. If that happens, it could be your period returning (yes, it can happen sooner than you think!) or a sign of a complication. Best to check in with your doctor or midwife.
Taking Care of Yourself While You Have Lochia
Those first few weeks with a new baby are a whirlwind. Here are a few simple things you can do to manage lochia and stay comfortable:
- Pads are your friend: Use only sanitary maxi pads or disposable postpartum underwear for at least the first six weeks. Tampons are a no-go during this time as they can introduce bacteria and increase infection risk. Stock up before baby arrives!
- Comfortable clothes: Wear clothing you don’t mind possibly getting stained.
- Listen to your body: You might notice an increase in discharge when you’re more active (like walking), when you’re breastfeeding, or when you first get out of bed.
- Rest, rest, rest: I know, easier said than done with a newborn! But try to rest when you can. Your body has done an incredible job and needs time to heal. Lean on your support network.
And a quick note: yes, it’s possible to get pregnant again quite soon after giving birth, even if your periods haven’t returned and you’re still experiencing lochia. We generally advise waiting at least six weeks postpartum before resuming sexual intercourse to allow your body to heal and reduce infection risk. When you do feel ready, and your doctor gives you the okay (usually at your six-week check-up), be sure to discuss contraception if you’re not planning another pregnancy right away.
Lochia vs. Your Period: What’s the Difference?
The main difference is how long they last. A typical period might be 3-7 days. Lochia, as we’ve discussed, sticks around for about six weeks for most women. Both start heavier and then lighten up, but lochia is a much longer process, reflecting all the healing your body is doing.
Take-Home Message: Understanding Lochia
Here’s a quick recap of what’s important to remember about lochia:
- It’s normal: Lochia is the natural vaginal discharge of blood, mucus, and uterine tissue after childbirth.
- It changes: Expect it to go from red (rubra), to pinkish-brown (serosa), to yellowish-white (alba) over several weeks.
- Duration: It typically lasts up to six weeks.
- C-section vs. Vaginal: You’ll have lochia with either type of birth, though it might be slightly less after a C-section.
- Know the red flags: Heavy bleeding (soaking a pad an hour), large clots, foul odor, fever, or worsening pain are reasons to call your doctor.
- Self-care: Use pads, rest, and avoid tampons until your doctor says it’s okay.
You’re navigating a huge transition, and your body is working hard to recover. Be gentle with yourself. We’re here to support you through it. You’re not alone in this.
