What is normal postpartum discharge?

After giving birth, the mother will have some secretions in the follow-up period. This is called lochia, which means that the body is excreting corresponding waste and toxins. This is normal and will occur regardless of whether it is a natural birth or a caesarean section. Normal lochia will last about three weeks, but for some friends, the lochia may last longer, so there is no need to panic.

Is postpartum lochia normal?

Whether you have a natural birth or a caesarean section, there will be some vaginal discharge after delivery, which is called lochia. During the first few days after delivery, lochia should be bright red, like a heavy menstrual period, and mostly blood and sloughed endometrial tissue. At this time, the lochia may flow out intermittently and in small streams, or it may flow out more evenly. If you lie down for a while and some blood collects in your vagina, you may see some small blood clots when you stand up.

If everything is normal, the lochia should decrease day by day, and by 2 to 4 days after delivery, the color will begin to turn pink and the texture will become more watery. By about the 10th day after delivery, there should be only a small amount of white or light yellow discharge - mainly white blood cells and cells shed from the uterine lining, which may last from a few days to a few weeks.

How to deal with postpartum lochia?

Get as much rest as possible and don't push yourself. At the beginning, you can use the thickened and larger sanitary napkins prepared for you by the hospital. After you go home, you should also buy some more sanitary napkins and keep them at home. As the lochia gradually decreases, you can switch to smaller sanitary napkins or panty liners. Do not use tampons for at least 6 weeks after delivery, because your vagina and uterus are recovering and the wounds are healing at this time, and using tampons will increase your chances of infection.