FAQ
Lochia refers to the vaginal discharge women experience after childbirth. In essence, the meaning of lochia is the body's way of expelling excess blood, mucus, and uterine tissue following the delivery of a baby, whether it's a vaginal birth or a C-section.
Yes, there are distinct lochia types that women typically experience in stages post-childbirth. These are:
- Lochia Rubra: Lasts for the first 3-4 days postpartum and is bright red.
- Lochia Serosa: Occurs from day 4 to about day 10 and turns pinkish or brownish.
- Lochia Alba: From day 10 to around 6 weeks postpartum, it takes on a light yellow or creamy hue.
Each stage has its unique lochia colour representing the body's healing process.
Women will experience lochia after a C-section just as they would after a vaginal birth. However, the initial flow might be slightly reduced because some of the blood and tissue are cleared out during the surgery. The progression through the lochia types remains the same, but women with C-sections should be particularly attentive to their recovery and the nature of the discharge.