Lochia

Lochia is the vaginal discharge that occurs after childbirth, containing blood, mucus, and uterine tissue. Lochia discharge typically continues for 4 to 6 weeks after childbirth, which is known as the postpartum period. It is a natural process that occurs as the uterus returns to its pre-pregnancy size and condition.

Types of Lochia

There are three types of lochia, each representing a different stage in the postpartum period:

• Lochia Rubra: This is the first discharge. It is red in color because it contains a large amount of blood. Lochia rubra typically lasts for 3 to 4 days after childbirth.

• Lochia Serosa: This discharge is pink or brown in color. It contains less blood and more white blood cells, wound discharge from the placental and other sites, and mucus from the cervix. Lochia serosa typically begins 3 to 4 days after childbirth and can continue for up to 2 weeks.

• Lochia Alba: This is the final discharge and is white or yellow-white in color. It contains even fewer red blood cells and more white blood cells, mucus, and bacteria. Lochia alba begins about 2 weeks after childbirth and can continue for up to 6 weeks.

Management of Lochia

The amount of lochia can be heavy in the first few days after childbirth, but it should gradually decrease. Women are advised to use sanitary pads, not tampons, to absorb the lochia. If the lochia has a foul smell, or if it continues to be bright red after the first few days, this could be a sign of a postpartum hemorrhage or infection, and medical advice should be sought.

See Also

• Postpartum period
• Postpartum hemorrhage
• Childbirth

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