Exploring Lochia: An Indepth Understanding of Postpartum Bleeding
– Lochia is the vaginal discharge that occurs after giving birth
– It contains a mix of blood, mucus, and uterine tissue
– Lochia has a stale, musty odor similar to menstrual period discharge
– It can last several weeks and gradually subsides in flow
– Lochia is a normal part of the postpartum healing process and usually doesn’t cause complications
– The color and volume of lochia progress over time, starting as dark or bright red blood before transitioning to whiteish mucus, then pinkish brown, and finally creamy yellowish-white
– Lochia has three stages: Lochia rubra (dark or bright red blood, lasts 3-4 days), Lochia serosa (pinkish brown discharge, lasts 4-12 days), and Lochia alba (yellowish white discharge, lasts 12 days to 6 weeks)
– Lochia is made up of blood, uterine tissue, amniotic fluid, bacteria, microorganisms, leftover fetal membranes, and cervical mucus
– Practicing good hygiene is important to manage lochia
– Extremely foul or fishy discharge could indicate an infection and should be reported to healthcare providers
– Lochia typically lasts about six weeks, but can last up to eight weeks in some cases
– Lochia and menstrual blood are similar in terms of smell and initially being dark red and heavy
– Both types of discharge subside before stopping, but lochia lasts much longer
– A typical period lasts about one week, while lochia lasts about six weeks in most cases.