Childbirth and pregnancy bring incredible changes to the body of a woman. After the birth of the baby, the body will start a healing process in which hormones change, and the uterus tends to shrink to its original size before the pregnancy (uterine involution).
Among the most observable developments in this time is Lochia, the discharge of vaginal secretions after childbirth. Knowledge of lochia physiology, its phases, and what is normal and what is worrisome can give a new mother the confidence to cope with the postpartum recovery.
What is Lochia?
The question that many new mothers have is What is lochia?
The vaginal discharge post-partum made up of blood, mucus and uterine tissue is called Lochia. It is the body in its natural manner of ridding itself of the leftover contents of the uterus.
Lochia starts immediately after giving birth and lasts several weeks. It is similar to a menstrual period except that it is longer and varies in colour and consistency with time. Such changes are signs that the uterus is healing and slowly restoring itself to normal.
Why Does Lochia Happen?
Lochia has a close association with the healing process of the uterus. The uterine lining (endometrium) starts bleeding after the placenta has been expelled. The open blood vessels left behind at the site where the placenta was attached need to close and heal.
The body is reacting by shedding blood, necrotic tissue, and mucus, in a process akin to menstruation–just longer and more intense in the beginning. Gradually the discharge will reduce as the uterus shrinks and fills up again.
How Long Should a Bleeding Period last After Delivery?
Bleeding after delivery how many days is normal, is one of the most popular questions asked by women.
The lochia can last between four and six weeks on average. Some women can get rid of it in as few as two weeks, but others can still be in discharge as long as eight weeks. The first week is generally the most active, then the bleeding slows as time goes by.
It is worth mentioning that the pattern and length of lochia may differ in women depending on factors such as mode of delivery (vaginal or cesarean), general health, and healing of the uterus.
Understanding Lochia Types
Recovery is not continuous and lochia occurs in phases. The three lochia types are grouped into three broad phases according to color and consistency.
Lochia Rubra (Days 1-4)
This is the initial stage. It is a bright red discharge like heavy period. It is largely filled with blood, small clots and tissue fragments. Lochia rubra typically takes 3-4 days following delivery and is a form of active blood loss at the placental site and lining of the uterus.
Lochia Serosa (Days 4-10)
During this phase the discharge turns pinkish-brown and is less thick than lochia rubra. It consists of blood, mucus and white blood cells. Lochia serosa normally takes a period of approximately one week, but in some cases it can take longer and is a sign that blood circulation is decreasing and uterine recovery is occurring.
Lochia Alba (Days 10-28 or more)
In the last phase, there is characterised by whitish or yellowish discharge. It primarily consists of leukocytes, mucus and reduced red blood cells. Lochia alba may extend between 2-6 weeks after delivery, indicating that recovery is almost over, and the uterus is going back to its normal condition.
What’s Normal vs. When to Worry
Lochia is normal and healthy, though it is important to note that sometimes bleeding indicates a complication.
Normal symptoms are a gradual colour change, i.e. red to pink and then to white or yellow, consistent decrease in flow, and a weak odour, which is likened to menstrual blood.
However, you must consult your doctor when the symptoms include bloody bright red, which lasts longer than the first week, a change of a pad in less than an hour. In addition to these symptoms, you see discharge of large clots (larger than a golf ball), foul odour, abdominal pain, and fever.
These symptoms can be signs of post-partum blood loss, placenta, or infection, all of which should be checked by the doctor as soon as possible.
How to Manage Lochia at Home
Childbirth may leave one in a bad situation, but with good care, lochia is easily controlled. Here are some practical tips:
Wear Maternity Pads: Tampons or menstrual cups should be avoided during the first six weeks because they are associated with infection. Choose Embrace Sanitary pads for comfort and protection throughout this phase.
Take a Rest: Do not overexert yourself. Excessive movement can contribute to bleeding.
Take Liquids: Keep up with water and have a proper diet, proper nutrition helps in healing.
Prefer Breastfeeding: This can make the uterus contract and also lessen the bleeding.
Stay Clean: Replace pads after every 6-8 hours. Also, make sure to keep the area clean and dry.
Don’t forget to wash your hands after changing a pad, because hygiene is very important.
Conclusion
Lochia physiology is a crucial component of postpartum recovery, as it is the process through which the body works its way to recovery after giving birth. Learning about what lochia is, the types of lochia, and the right information about bleeding after delivery, for how many days is normal, helps mothers know what is normal.
Each woman heals in her own way, but having rest, care, and awareness, the postpartum recovery will be easier and safer!
