Postpartum bleeding (lochia)
Immediately after delivery, you will have a bloody discharge (lochia) from the vagina. This will turn pinkish within a week and become white or yellowish after about 10 days. Lochia may last for 4 to 6 weeks, but it should be less bloody after 2 weeks. It can come and go for about 2 months.
Use pads, rather than tampons, during this time. If you have a tear next to the vagina (perineal tear) or an episiotomy that is healing, change the pad at least every 4 hours to prevent irritation and infection.
How much bleeding is too much?
Call your health professional if you:
- Have bleeding that soaks one extra-large sanitary pad per hour for 4 or 5 hours.
- Have bloody discharge that continues beyond 4 to 6 weeks.
- Pass blood clots larger than a golf ball over several hours.
Don't be concerned if you pass occasional blood clots, as long as they are smaller than a golf ball.
| Author: | Bets Davis, MFA Kathe Gallagher, MSW Ralph Poore | Last Updated: February 26, 2008 |
| Medical Review: | Sarah Marshall, MD - Family Medicine Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine Kirtly Jones, MD - Obstetrics and Gynecology Deborah A. Penava, BA, MD, FRCSC, MPH - Obstetrics and Gynecology | |
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