What is Lochia?
Lochia might be a word you haven't heard before, yet it plays a crucial role in the healing journey after you've given birth. Just like the rollercoaster of changes your body embraces during pregnancy and the miracle of childbirth, the phase following your baby's arrival has its unique shifts and turns. One of these changes involves the expulsion of lochia, a vaginal discharge that appears after childbirth. In this article, we will delve deeper into understanding lochia, its stages, and how to manage it effectively.
What is Lochia and What Does It Look Like?
Lochia is the vaginal discharge that occurs after childbirth. It contains blood, mucus, and uterine tissue. Immediately after delivery, lochia appears as a heavy flow of bright red blood and may also contain small clots. Its appearance and consistency change as days pass, transitioning through various stages.
Why Do You Experience Lochia?
During pregnancy, the uterus is lined with blood and tissue. This lining that is gradually shed from your uterus is known as 'lochia'. When you deliver your baby, the left-over fluid is flushed out of the body over the next few days. The body sheds the blood just like the fluid is shed during your menstrual cycle.
The lochia discharge is likely to be heavier when you wake up in the morning. It also increases in times when you are physically active and breastfeeding.
What is Lochia Made of and Does It Smell?
Lochia is made up of a mix of blood, mucus, white blood cells, and bits of the uterine lining. It has a natural, earthy scent due to what's in it. But remember, if it starts to smell unusual, it could be a sign of an infection . Always trust your instincts and body's signals.
Change in Types of Lochia
Over a few weeks, the colour of the lochia discharge usually begins to change. In the initial days, it is red, and it turns into light pink over the next week. As the flow trails off, it tends to become watery with a light pinkish hue.
Below mentioned are the different stages of lochia:
1. Lochia Rubra:
This is the initial stage and lasts for the first 3 to 4 days postpartum. It is characterised by its bright red colour and may include clots. It is essentially the body's way of expelling excess blood and tissue after delivery.
2. Lochia Serosa:
Occurring from day 4 to approximately day 10 postpartum, the discharge turns a pinkish or brownish hue. It contains less blood and more mucus and white blood cells.
3. Lochia Alba:
The final stage, from day 10 to about 6 weeks postpartum, is characterised by a light yellow or creamy colour. It mainly comprises mucus, white blood cells, and cells from the lining of the uterus.
Lochia After a C-Section
Whether you've had a natural birth or a C-section, your body goes through a similar healing process. So yes, even after a C-section, you'll still experience lochia as your body naturally clears out the blood, mucus, and tissue from the whole birthing journey. However, there can be some differences in the experience of lochia after a C-section. Understand them:
- Immediately after a C-section, some women might notice that their lochia flow is slightly less. This is because, during the surgery, doctors usually clear out some of the blood and tissue from the uterus. This results in a reduced initial flow.
- The consistency, transition through different lochia stages, and overall duration of lochia remains similar to that after a vaginal birth. Women can still expect to progress from lochia rubra to lochia serosa and finally to lochia alba over a span of 4 to 6 weeks.
- After a C-section, there's an incision wound on the abdomen, which carries its own risk of infection. While this doesn't directly influence lochia, an infection in the uterus (endometritis) can change the nature and smell of lochia. It's essential to monitor any unusual changes in the discharge and consult a doctor if needed.
- After a C-section, movement might be restricted due to pain and healing of the surgical area. The reclined or lying down position can influence how lochia is expelled, sometimes causing it to pool. Standing up after a long rest might lead to a sudden rush of lochia. It's crucial to use good quality sanitary pads to manage the flow effectively during such times.
How Long Does It Last?
Typically, lochia lasts for about 4 to 6 weeks postpartum. However, lochia duration can vary among women. Some might experience it for a shorter period, while others might notice it for a slightly extended period.
Is Lochia Different From Your Normal Periods?
Yes, lochia is different from regular menstrual periods. While both involve vaginal bleeding, the cause, consistency, and duration differ. Lochia results from the body healing the site where the placenta was attached to the uterus, whereas periods result from the shedding of the uterine lining in the absence of pregnancy.
Can Lochia Be Infected?
Yes, lochia can become infected, especially if hygiene is not maintained. Symptoms might include foul-smelling discharge, fever, and abdominal pain. If you suspect an infection, it's crucial to seek medical advice promptly.
Ways to Manage Lochia:
There is no way to completely avoid this postpartum discharge. However, you can effectively manage the condition to minimize the discomfort and embarrassing leakage. Here are some actionable tips:
Use high-quality sanitary pads:
Menstrual sanitary pads by ALWAYS can be used but we recommend using specialised pads basis your postpartum flow. Sanitary pads are your best aid here as tampons can induce bacteria into the recovering uterus.
Maintain hygiene
Changing pads regularly and maintaining good hygiene are crucial. Ensure you wash your hands before and after changing pads and take regular baths to keep clean.
Wear comfortable panties
While you may be tempted to bring out those lacy pairs post your pregnancy, we recommend holding on for a while. Instead, bring out those comfortable cotton panties that sit well on your skin. Also, old panties will do just fine as you may end up staining them from time to time.
Do not push your limits
Your body has already endured enough during the pregnancy and you must give it time to recover. Do not push yourself to do heavy activities as it can cause your body to bleed heavily.
Keep track
Keep track of your flow from time to time. If the lochia has a very thick clot-like consistency with a foul smell, you must bring it to the notice of your doctor. The smell of the lochia is a major indicator of an underlying condition.
When to Consult a Doctor?
While lochia is a natural process, there are certain situations when you should consult a healthcare professional:
- If the bleeding remains heavy and bright red after a week.
- Presence of large clots.
- If you develop a fever or experience chills.
- When there's a foul or offensive odour from the discharge .
Understanding lochia is crucial for every woman, whether you're in your teens or your forties. The definition of lochia essentially refers to the postpartum discharge women experience. Lochia is a condition that can be quite distressing as you also have to focus on your baby. But do note that it will not last for more than two to four weeks. If you continue to feel discomfort even after four weeks, it is recommended that you talk to your doctor.
Now keep track of your ovulation period with Aways Fertile Days Calculator.
Disclaimer:
Please note the date of the last review or update on all articles. No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice, diagnosis or treatment from your doctor or other qualified clinician. Always is committed to ensuring that all of our products meet rigorous safety standards; Always Pads prioritizes the safety, protection and comfort of its consumers.