We take your recovery and healing very seriously and therefore we want to share some important information on what your postpartum bleeding (Lochia) experience will look like. Let's dive into what's normal, what isn’t and when to call your doctor.
If you have had a vaginal delivery or a Cesarean section, you will experience vaginal bleeding and discharge after birth. This is also called Lochia. This is how your body gets rid of the extra blood and tissue in your uterus that helped your baby grow!
Normal postpartum bleeding resembles a heavy period at first and it may have a similar scent to what your period blood has. Over time this will gradually change as the days and weeks go by.
Here is a simple breakdown of what your bleeding may look like over time::
You might notice that you have more postpartum bleeding when you’ve been active, or when you’re breastfeeding. It also might be a little heavier at certain times of day, like in the morning.
Keep an eye on your postpartum bleeding because changes in it could signal a problem. Call your doctor if you have any concerning symptoms, including:
Rest and recover! You have just been through a lot! Spend as much time as you can bonding, snuggling, learning to breastfeed in bed with your new family member. The days are long but the years are short.
If you do too much too soon you do increase the risk of heavy bleeding and slowing down your healing
Pee often, even when your bladder does not feel full. An empty bladder helps your uterus to contract.