Postpartum Bleeding: A Natural Condition For Every Woman After Birth

Postpartum bleeding is common for all pregnant women (healthy pregnancy) after child birth and is also known as lochia.

Postpartum bleeding is your body’s way of getting rid of excess blood, mucus and tissues from the placenta after giving birth to your child.

This condition is very similar to the bleeding that occurs during your menstruation cycle, but postpartum bleeding is more intense.

Bleeding starts within a few hours after delivery and usually exists for 2-3 weeks. For some women, bleeding lasts for six weeks after giving birth.

What postpartum bleeding looks like?

It can take on various forms, based on how much time you are into the postpartum. Basically, Lochia begins as a gush or it flows steadily similar to a regular menstrual period. In the beginning, blood clots about the size of grapes will come out.

During the initial days, lochia is a bright red color. After one or two weeks, blood discharge becomes a more brownish red color and takes on a thinner texture.

For the next few weeks, the blood discharge continues to alter from a red shade to pink and finally a yellowish white. As time passes, the discharge should slow down and become lighter.

How can you manage the condition of postpartum bleeding?

You need to get plenty of rest, but don’t overdo it. During the initial weeks, use heavy-duty sanitary pads provided by the hospital. As the lochia tapers off, you can use mini pads.

How to cope with postpartum bleeding?

• Get as much rest as you can. Also, proper rest helps you cope with stress levels.
• Avoid the usage of tampons as they can cause infection in your vagina or uterus.Use sanitary pads.
• Drink plenty of water. Keeping yourself hydrated will also help you in breastfeeding.

What are the warning signs associated with postpartum bleeding?

Bleeding after the delivery is not due to any health concerns. This will stop on its own when your body is ready. However, some women experience problems with postpartum bleeding. If you observe any of the below-mentioned symptoms, call your practitioner.

• Bad smelling discharge;
• Chills and fever;
• Heavy abnormal vaginal bleeding;
• Bright red discharge for more than a week after the birth.

Experiencing any of these symptoms makes your condition worse, but proper care will help you relieve these problems.