by Dr. Wendy (OB/Gyn)

Question

What is postpartum bleeding and what is normal?

Answer

Lochia is the blood and discharge that comes from the uterus after you deliver your baby.

For the first week or so after delivery you will see lochia rubra. This is red or brown and can be as heavy or heavier than a period. This is normal. Over the next 2-3 weeks you will see lochia serosa- this is pink/brown in color. For the next few weeks you will see lochia alba- this is a yellow-white discharge.

You should stop seeing blood by 6 weeks postpartum. If you are still having persistent bleeding by 8 weeks postpartum (not where it totally stops and then you get your period- we are talking about continuous bleeding from the time of delivery on) you should notify your doctor. This can represent either an infection, retained pregnancy tissue or a placental polyp that may need to be removed.

Related Q&A:

Wendy Fried, M.D., FACOG, FACS, is an OB/Gyn with Northern Obstetrics and Gynecology, PC in North Hills, New York

Disclaimer: The information provided in this document is for educational purposes only. It is not medical advice and is not intended as a substitute for medical advice. Only your own physician knows all the important details of your specific medical and personal history and should be the only one to give you advice regarding your own medical care. You should never disregard medical advice or delay seeking medical advice or treatment because of something you have read herein. If you have any questions whatsoever about your medical health or believe you have a medical problem or disease, you should contact your medical doctor or healthcare provider.