Well Done Mum

Lochia / Vagina Bleeding

Lochia or post partum bleeding is a combination of the sloughed uterine lining and blood. It occurs whether you have had a vaginal delivery or a caesarean and is similar to heavy bleeding you experience during a menstrual period.

Lochia is caused when the cells that formed the lining of the uterus sloughing off.

This bleeding may be initially heavy enough and a bright red colour for the first 7-10 days and then it gets lighter. By week 3 the discharge should be a brownish yellow or whitish colour. If your bleeding turns a brighter red after lightening - slow down and rest more.

If you are breastfeeding, the flow may start and stop quite often till 6-8 weeks

Call your health care provider if the bleeding:

• Soaks more than one pad an hour
• Remains heavy and bright red after the first week
• Returns to a bright red colour four or more days after birth and does not improve with rest
• Has large blood clots (bigger than a 50 cents piece)
• Has a foul smell and you come down with a fever or/and chills.

Women should only use maternity pads up until their 6 week check-up and avoid using tampons as this can increase the chances of infection.