FAQ: Vaginal Postpartum Bleeding (Lochia)

Your little one’s arrival is a joyful and exciting time, but life after childbirth may bring unexpected changes to your body. One of these changes is postpartum bleeding, known as lochia. While it might not be something you anticipated, it's a normal part of recovery. This article will guide you through what to expect, how long it may last, and how to care for yourself during this stage.

What Is Lochia or Postpartum Bleeding?

Lochia is the medical term for the postpartum bleeding and discharge that happens after giving birth, whether you've had a vaginal delivery or a cesarean section. This process is your body’s way of shedding the mucosal lining that builds up in your uterus during pregnancy. The meaning of “lochia” refers to this natural clearing of blood, tissue, and placental remnants.

Is Postpartum Bleeding Normal?

Yes, postpartum bleeding is a normal part of recovery during the postpartum period. During this period, it’s common to experience lochia, which may include small blood clots—sometimes as large as a plum.

That said, it’s important to monitor your bleeding. If you find yourself soaking through two sanitary pads in less than an hour, or if you notice symptoms like pelvic pain, fever, or tenderness, reach out to your healthcare provider. 

Is Lochia Different From Period Bleeding?

Lochia and period bleeding may seem similar at first—both may start as dark red, heavy discharge with a noticeable smell. However, postpartum bleeding lasts much longer, often up to six weeks, while a period typically lasts about a week.

Lochia may also contain blood clots as large as a plum, which isn’t common with period bleeding. If you’re unsure whether you’re experiencing postpartum bleeding or period bleeding, consider the timing—lochia begins right after childbirth, while period bleeding returns weeks or months later.

What Causes Postpartum Bleeding?

Postpartum bleeding occurs as the uterus sheds the lining that supports your little one during pregnancy. The primary reason why you bleed after birth is the separation of the placenta from the uterine wall, which leaves open blood vessels that naturally heal as the uterus contracts.

When Does Lochia Happen After a Vaginal Birth?

Lochia begins immediately after giving birth and may last for several weeks. If you're wondering how long you bleed after birth, the process typically continues for about four to six weeks. The heaviest bleeding typically occurs in the first few days. Gradually, the flow lightens, and by the second or third week, it may reduce to light spotting.

How long after birth do you bleed? This varies for each person, but for most, bleeding may continue for about four to six weeks. If postpartum bleeding stops and starts again or becomes heavy, consult your healthcare provider to ensure your recovery is on track.

How Long Does Postpartum Bleeding (Lochia) Last?

Postpartum bleeding is different for every individual. Generally, it continues for about four to six weeks. For some, it may stop after two weeks, while others may notice light discharge lasting over a month.

Lochia After a Cesarean

Lochia after a cesarean delivery is similar to what happens after a vaginal birth, though the bleeding may be lighter. While bleeding after a c-section may taper off sooner than with a vaginal delivery, light spotting may persist for several weeks. If you’re unsure how long you should bleed after a c-section or you notice prolonged or heavy bleeding, consult your healthcare provider.

How to Identify Lochia?

Lochia progresses through distinct stages, and its color and volume change as your body heals. In the first few days, postpartum bleeding symptoms include bright or dark red discharge, often heavy enough to soak a thick pad every two to three hours. It’s normal to pass blood clots after labor, though they should generally be small.

Around a week later, lochia becomes lighter and takes on a pinkish or brown discharge. By the second week, the flow decreases further, transitioning to a yellowish discharge or a pale, yellow discharge. Some people may only need thin liners at this stage. 

Does Lochia Have a Smell?

The postpartum bleeding tends to smell like menstrual blood—musty or metallic—but it shouldn’t have a fishy smell. If lochia stinks or smells foul, it could signal an infection.

To reduce smelly discharge after birth, change pads regularly and avoid tampons. If the odor worsens or is paired with pain or fever, consult your healthcare provider.

What Are the Stages of Lochia?

Lochia progresses in three postpartum bleeding stages as your body heals:

• 1^st Stage (Lochia rubra). Lasts about 3 to 4 days. Expect dark or bright red blood, heavy flow, small clots, and mild cramping.

• 2^nd Stage (Lochia serosa). Lasts 4 to 12 days. Discharge becomes pinkish brown, thinner, and less bloody, with fewer or no clots.

• Final Stage (Lochia alba). Lasts from 12 days up to six weeks. Alba lochia is a yellowish, white discharge with little to no blood or clots, often reduced to light spotting.

These lochia stages mark normal postpartum recovery. If bleeding suddenly increases or changes, consult your healthcare provider.

Can Postpartum Bleeding Stop and Start Again?

Although there may be times when you notice more or less discharge, lochia itself doesn't usually stop altogether only to start up again. The postpartum bleeding usually stops within 4 to 6 weeks after childbirth. 

What to Do If You are Bleeding?

Managing postpartum bleeding helps support healing. Here’s how to care for yourself during this time:

• Use sanitary pads. Stick to maxi pads for the first six weeks. Avoid tampons or anything inserted into the vagina.

• Rest and take it easy. Overexertion may increase or restart bleeding.

• Change pads frequently. This helps prevent infection.

• Wear old underwear/clothing. Lochia may stain, so wear items you don’t mind ruining.

• Avoid strenuous activity. Allow your body time to heal. Resuming intense activity too soon may trigger heavier bleeding.

If bleeding worsens or lasts longer than expected, consult your healthcare provider.

Bleeding After Postpartum Intercourse

Bleeding after sex postpartum may occur if intercourse resumes too soon. Healthcare providers recommend waiting at least six weeks to allow for healing. Light bleeding after postpartum intercourse is common, but heavy or persistent bleeding after sex after giving birth could indicate irritation or infection. Contact your provider if bleeding continues.

When to Consult Your Healthcare Provider

Contact your healthcare provider if you notice postpartum infection symptoms or if your bleeding feels abnormal. 

Are you wondering, “What does infected lochia look like?” You may notice the following: 

• Greenish color vaginal discharge

• Fever

• Chills

• Pelvic pain

• Unusually heavy bleeding or vaginal discharge

• Foul-smelling vaginal discharge. 

If you’re unsure whether it’s lochia or infection, pay attention to changes in color, flow, or odor. Postpartum lochia infection may lead to complications, so seek medical care if you suspect anything unusual.

The Bottom Line

Postpartum bleeding may feel inconvenient, but it's a normal and temporary part of recovery. Keeping pads on hand and using more absorbent options at night may help manage heavier flow. Your body is healing from pregnancy and childbirth, and these changes take time.

During this period, balancing recovery with newborn care may feel overwhelming. If you're unsure about what's normal or need reassurance, don’t hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider. Lean on your partner or loved ones for support when needed.

To earn savings on your future diaper purchases, download the Pampers Rewards app. Every little bit helps during this busy time. Every little bit of savings can make a difference during this busy time. 

_{How We Wrote This Article The information in this article is based on the expert advice found in trusted medical and government sources, such as the American Academy of Pediatrics and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. You can find a full list of sources used for this article below. The content on this page should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult medical professionals for full diagnosis and treatment.}