After the birth of a child, women are faced with various physiological problems that worry them and bring discomfort. However, they must know all the nuances to distinguish the natural state from pathology.
Question of the day: how long does the discharge last after childbirth, and what does it look like during a normal course? postpartum recovery? Every new mom goes through this, which is why it's so important to know what to expect.
Girls will have lochia no matter how the child was born - naturally or with surgery. The reason for their occurrence lies in the restoration of the uterus and its cleansing of membranes. After the baby is born, a wound from the placenta remains on the surface of the organ. Until it heals and the mucous membrane returns to normal, you can observe wound contents coming out of the vagina. Visually, it may resemble menstruation, but it contains remnants of membranes, ichor, and mucus. After some time, their abundance and color will change.
If the process of cleansing and reduction takes place without complications, then the duration of lochia is 5-8 weeks.
Moreover, the abundant ones end within up to 3 weeks, after which they are not so strong. Of course, this happens individually, taking into account factors such as:
- lactation;
- age and physical activity;
- blood clotting;
- child's weight;
- complications during pregnancy.
It is important to be able to diagnose what is normal and what is a sign of pathology, so always pay attention to these characteristics:
- Composition (1-4 days - blood, clots; 2 weeks - clots and mucus; a month later - smears (possibly blood).
- Color (1-4 - bright scarlet, 2-3 weeks - brownish, after a month - white or transparent).
- Smell (in the first week - bloody, musty, beware of the rotten and pungent smell!).
Average duration
How many days does discharge last after childbirth? On average, about 42. At the same time, it is the period when they change their color and volume that is important, because you need to make sure that the body is cleansed correctly and on time.
How long it takes for lochia rubra to last is another important question. Immediately after the baby is born, the placenta separates very actively, and there is a lot of bloody secretion from the vagina.
This is not very convenient, but it is important so that the gynecologist can determine whether everything is fine. At this time, about 400-500 ml of liquid pours out of the girl.
Up to 3-4 days they appear scarlet in color, clots can be seen in them, but this is not a sign of pathology. During this period, a woman has to change a special pad every hour on average. In addition, the girl may smell a sweetish or musty odor - there is no need to be afraid, but if the odor is putrid, consult a doctor immediately.
How long does serous lochia last? They should last from 4 to 10 days. Their volume decreases, their color changes - now they are brown-pink or brown. The number of leukocytes increases, so there should be no more blood clots during this period. You can already use regular gaskets
After 10 days lochia appears white, smearing in nature. They are odorless and do not cause discomfort, and last about 20 days. This is the final stage of wound healing. After finishing.
Risk of uterine bleeding
There is a high risk in the first hours after the baby is born uterine bleeding if the uterus contracts poorly after relaxation during pregnancy. To prevent this, put ice on their stomach. During contractions of this organ, they are compressed blood vessels, this prevents excessive blood loss and its consequences: anemia, dizziness, weakness.
It is important on the first day not to be ashamed of your secretions, show them to the doctor and keep him informed about your condition all the time. This will also affect how long you will have to spend in the hospital after giving birth.
Pathological conditions
We have already discussed the situation with natural healing, but there are various deviations, if you notice them in time you can maintain your health. Some of them indicate pathologies that require medical intervention.
Secretion occurs after 5 weeks or a little longer. If they last less or suddenly stop, visit your gynecologist. The reason for this may be insufficient contractility of the uterus, then the blood and placenta do not come out and form stagnation. It must be eliminated immediately. To avoid stagnation, girls are advised to get out of bed and walk more often.
If lochia comes out after childbirth for more than 2 months, you should be examined by a doctor immediately.
After all, after such a time, you must leave them in the past. The cause of blood may be menstruation if there are no clots, pus, unpleasant odor. Rupture of seams can also affect its appearance. In any case, pay attention to the color, smell and consistency of what comes out of the vagina, and report to doctors.
About endometritis, dangerous inflammation, they will tell you yellow or greenish secrets with a pungent aroma. If your temperature also rises and your stomach hurts, call an ambulance. It doesn’t matter how long the lochia comes out after the birth of a child, it can either be stagnation or infectious infection- neither one nor the other bodes well. Treatment of this disease takes place only in a hospital, with the help of antibiotics and a disinfectant solution, and
Lochia after caesarean section
Many girls are interested in how long the discharge should be after surgery. In such cases, they take longer because contractility is hampered due to the suture and swelling of the tissue. However, even under such circumstances, it is considered normal if the end is after 9 weeks. They can be red for up to 10 days, but not longer, then, as with the natural appearance of a baby, they change shade to brown, then to white.
Menstruation occurs after artificial ones, as with normal childbirth, if the woman did not have complications in the form of inflammation, infections, or bleeding. After all, the body of a girl who has undergone surgery is more unstable and weakened.
How long mothers will discharge after childbirth, regardless of the method of birth, is influenced by breastfeeding.
Lactation stimulates uterine contractions and fluid comes out better. So take note.
How long lochia lasts after childbirth depends on the new mother herself and her compliance with certain rules. Below you will find some important tips that are highly recommended.
- To reduce the risk of complications after the birth of a child, a pregnant woman should be supervised by a doctor from the beginning. A woman should visit him regularly and take the medications prescribed by him. The gynecologist will assess her individual condition and tell her when the discharge should end after childbirth in her case.
- Before leaving the hospital, you need to do an ultrasound, which will help assess the current state of the uterus. Over the course of several weeks while it actively heals, you should rest more, avoid heavy lifting, and avoid putting pressure on your abs.
- Observe personal hygiene rules. While there is discharge, you need to wash yourself more often, after each trip to the toilet. and limit yourself to a warm shower.
- Do not use tampons. They delay the flow and thereby increase the risk of inflammation.
- Start walking 4-5 hours after the baby is born, so that there is no stagnation. If you have had a caesarean section, this should be done after 10 hours.
- Feed your baby your milk.
- Immediately inform doctors if the nature of the secretions changes, you feel a putrid odor, bleeding increases, and the temperature rises.
- It is not recommended to have sex in this state. Intimate relationships are possible even when the discharge stops after the birth of the baby.
Conclusion
Let's summarize and figure out how long discharge lasts after childbirth, how long bloody lochia lasts and what it is. This process is natural, just like the birth of the baby itself. After his birth, the uterus throws out unnecessary tissue, placenta, mucus, ichor, and blood comes out. All this is similar to normal periods, except that they are more abundant.
In the first hours their volume reaches 500 ml. Such secretions last up to 4 days, then their color changes and there are fewer of them. After 2-3 weeks, they turn white or transparent and should be finished in 42 days. Be careful and, if you see signs of the pathologies described above, immediately inform your doctor.
The postpartum period is a time of recovery female body. Bloody discharge after childbirth is part of this stage. We'll talk about why they happen and how long they should last below.
In addition, the uterus itself is damaged during childbirth. remains on it open wound from a detached placenta with many damaged vessels.
It is from blood oozing from a healing wound and lochia that postpartum discharge consists. This is a completely natural process of cleansing the body., which you don’t need to be afraid of. In the first hours it is most active and intense. Since the muscles of the uterus begin to contract, trying to take on a natural shape, and push out everything unnecessary.
It will not be possible to completely avoid bleeding after childbirth, since the placenta in any case, detaching from the uterus, damages it. But gradually the amount of discharge should decrease. If this does not happen or the bleeding increases, urgent need to apply for medical assistance.
To avoid worsening your condition, carry out the following recommendations:
- roll over onto your stomach from time to time, this will help the uterus cleanse itself faster;
- Empty every 2-3 hours bladder, even if you don’t feel the desire, since a full bladder prevents the uterus from contracting;
- periodically apply a cold heating pad to the lower abdomen for 10–15 minutes, this helps to narrow the blood vessels;
- avoid any physical activity;
- breastfeed, as this leads to contraction of the uterus and its rapid cleansing.
The first days after childbirth are especially dangerous. Firstly, all the lochia have not yet come out, which is a favorable environment for the proliferation of microbes. Secondly, the wound on the uterus is open and can easily become infected.
To avoid complications need to stick to simple rules hygiene:
- On the first day, use sterile diapers instead of pads. Then you can switch to regular pads that you are used to, just take maximum amount drops Such pads need to be changed 8–9 times a day.
- Wash your perineum after using the toilet warm water, directing the jet from top to bottom. You need to use baby soap. Only the outer surface can be washed.
- You need to take a shower every day, but never a bath.
- You can use any ointments for healing only with the permission of a doctor.
- It is strictly forbidden to wear tampons instead of pads. This will not only delay the release of lochia and increase the possibility of infection, but can also damage the vagina.
How long does discharge last after childbirth?
How long and how many days does the discharge last after childbirth? It is quite normal for blood discharge after childbirth lasts up to 2 months. Therefore, there is no need to panic. For some women, the recovery process ends by the sixth week, but such cases are rare. You should seek medical help if the discharge lasts more than 2 months. This may indicate complications.
It is difficult to accurately create a single allocation schedule, since this physiological process tied to individual characteristics body. However, there are certain average rates of discharge after childbirth:
- First 3–5 days– intense light red discharge. At this moment, the woman is under constant medical supervision. The amount of discharge can reach up to 400 ml per day.
- 5–6 days– the amount of discharge noticeably decreases, they acquire a brown tint. May contain blood clots and mucus. Intensifies with physical activity. During this period, if there are no pathologies, the woman is discharged.
- 11–14 days– discharge after childbirth becomes brown-yellow color, which gradually brightens to white. This process can take up to a month.
At the same time, the discharge should not be accompanied by pain, fever or itching.
Pathological discharge, its cause and when it’s time to see a doctor
Let us list the situations in which you need to seek medical help:
- Discharge stops before the fifth week. This may be a consequence of uterine spasm. In this case, lochia cannot leave the body, which leads to infectious complications.
- The color of the discharge remains bright red after the first 5 days. This may indicate a clotting disorder or new bleeding.
- After the discharge turned brown, it turned red again. Indicates intrauterine bleeding.
- The discharge after childbirth has become putrid or sweetish, bad smell, which may be caused by the development of infection in the uterine cavity.
For any of the above violations urgently need to consult a doctor. Delay can lead to serious consequences, including death.
Share with us your experience, what hygiene products did you use it after childbirth, how quickly did the recovery process go? It is very important for our readers real experience moms and their tips for those who have yet to go through this!
Every new mother worries not only about the health of her baby, but also about her own well-being. One of the most frequently asked questions, which the vlachs hear maternity ward, sounds like this: “How long does the discharge last after childbirth?” This is exactly what will be discussed further. You will find out how long after childbirth there is spotting. Also find out what color they acquire later. It is definitely worth considering several options for the process.
How long does discharge last after childbirth? Answer from gynecologists and obstetricians
If you consult a doctor with this question, you will find out the following information. Discharge after delivery continues for just over one month. Doctors usually call the time period 42 days. However, every woman’s body is individual. Some mothers recover faster. For others, the rehabilitation process is delayed. Discharge has a completely different duration in the event of the development of a pathological process or complication.
Lochia is the contents of the reproductive organ, which comes out after the separation of the child's place. This includes blood from the wound surface, mucus from the walls of the uterus, remnants of decidual tissue and membranes that did not come out during the expulsion of the placenta.
The color of normal lochia is an important indicator
How long does discharge last after childbirth, you found out. However, this is not all the information you need to know. The consistency and color of the mucus plays a big role. It is from this indicator that one can suspect pathological process, which developed as a result of childbirth. Quite often, in maternity hospitals, midwives regularly examine the discharge of new mothers. If a pathology is suspected, information is provided to the doctor. Such women are prescribed additional tests in the form of ultrasound, blood tests and gynecological examination.
First five days
How long does it take after giving birth? bleeding? A little less than one week. It is this gap that doctors report. While the mother is in labor within the walls of the maternity ward, the mucus that comes out has a rich red color. It may also contain admixtures of clots and lumps.
Often such discharge acquires an unpleasant odor. This is the absolute norm. Indeed, during this period, what was in the cavity of the reproductive organ for the long nine months of gestation is separated. However, if after five days the mucus (consistency and color) has not changed, then we are talking about a complication.
Two weeks after birth
How long does the discharge last after childbirth (after heavy bleeding has stopped)? When the remaining tissue and blood come out, we can say that the wound surface has almost recovered. Now the discharge has a pinkish-red tint. It is worth noting that they should not contain clots. Unpleasant odor is also eliminated.
Such discharge continues for about two weeks. During this period they are no longer so abundant. This allows a woman to refuse postpartum pads and use regular hygiene products.
After a month
You already know how long after childbirth there is bleeding. This period is approximately three weeks. By the end of the first month, the discharge acquires a mucous consistency and an orange color. They look more like ichor. This mucus indicates that the internal cavity of the reproductive organ continues to rapidly recover.
This mucous ichor can normally be secreted for about one week. Remember that all deadlines are very conditional. So, for some women, by the end of the first month, the discharge ends completely.
Fifth week after birth
How long does the discharge last after childbirth, and what color should it be? Normally, by the fifth week after the baby is born, the lochia becomes white. They got their unusual name because of the mucous consistency of the transparent discharge. A new mother can observe this phenomenon for about another week or two.
During this period, a woman no longer requires sanitary pads for menstruation. She could very well benefit from daily protective inserts. The amount of such mucus is very small. Up to 5-10 milliliters can be released per day. For clarity, one teaspoon contains 5 ml.
When does lochia end? What does this depend on?
How long does the discharge last after childbirth and the smell of this fluid are very important indicators. Usually lochia ends one and a half months after the birth of the child. This deadline is the deadline. If after the specified time the lochia is still present, then there is a possibility of pathology developing. Early termination of discharge also does not mean anything good. What determines how long the discharge lasts after childbirth?
Reviews from doctors say that the weight of the baby and the course of pregnancy play a big role. when a mother gives birth to a large child (more than 4 kilograms) or has polyhydramnios, the reproductive organ is greatly stretched. Because of this, the recovery process takes longer. Often, to speed up the contraction of the uterus, such women in labor are prescribed oxytocin after the baby is born. This drug helps mucus leave the cavity of the reproductive organ faster.
How long does the discharge last after childbirth (caesarean section)? In the case when the baby is born with the help of surgeons who dissect abdominal wall In women, lochia may be of a slightly different nature. In this case, the duration of bleeding may increase to two weeks. This is due to the fact that in addition to the wound surface from the placenta, there is also a scar in the uterus. It is worth noting that with this method of delivery there is big risk development of infections and complications.
Possible pathologies
Sometimes after the birth of a baby, a woman faces problems. Statistics show that approximately every fifth new mother is sent by doctors for gynecological curettage. In what cases is it really necessary?
If after giving birth the discharge has not become less abundant after a week, but still contains lumps, we may be talking about incomplete separation of the placenta. After expulsion of the child's place, obstetricians should carefully examine it for damage. If they are present, then manual cleaning is carried out directly on the birth table. If pathology is detected late, curettage is performed using anesthesia. How long does the discharge last after childbirth (after cleaning)? With this combination of circumstances, lochia ends somewhat faster. All due to the fact that an artificial separation of mucus and areas and tissues remaining in the uterus was performed.
Also quite often, mothers in labor face inflammatory diseases. In this case, the infection can be acquired long before birth. However, after such a complex process, which is accompanied by the formation of a wound surface, pathological microorganisms begin to actively multiply. In this case, the discharge may have not only an unusual character, but also a strange consistency. Simultaneously with the lochia, pus is released. The blood takes on a brownish-green color and a fishy odor. Treatment must be carried out using antibacterial agents.
Lochia or postpartum discharge may end in less than a month. In this case, blood comes out in small volumes. This is explained by the fact that the cervical canal closes very early. Pieces of tissue and mucus simply cannot penetrate through the small hole. Quite often, women who have given birth through caesarean section. In this case, the fairer sex undergoes the same gynecological curettage.
In order for lochia to come out as it should after childbirth, a woman must follow certain rules. The following tips will help your postpartum discharge to be emptied in a timely and complete manner.
- Immediately after giving birth, you should use an ice compress on the abdominal area.
- When you are transferred to the room, assume a prone position. This will allow the uterus not to bend and release its contents.
- Breastfeed your baby. Sucking provokes the production of oxytocin, which enhances the contractility of the reproductive organ.
- Follow your doctor's recommendations and take prescribed medications.
Summing up the article
You now know how long discharge lasts after childbirth. You also found out what color they should be. If you have recently become a mother, then after one month you should definitely visit a gynecologist. The doctor will examine and evaluate your discharge. By then they should already be light and slimy. If you suddenly notice increased bleeding or the addition of an unpleasant odor and foam, then you should visit a medical facility as soon as possible. You may need some medication adjustment. Remember that during this period you cannot swim in open water and be exposed to heat. Good health to you and a speedy recovery!
Childbirth is a very important and complex process for a woman’s body. A woman’s entire body prepares for it for nine months. Naturally, after childbirth, the body also needs time to gradually recover. One of the most obvious signs of the postpartum period is lochia.
Lochia is blood discharge after childbirth. In this way, the uterus and birth canal are cleared of dead endometrial cells, placental remnants, fluid and blood. The stretched walls of the uterus gradually return to almost their original size. This process is called “involution”, which means restoration. And it is accompanied by bloody discharge after childbirth.
What should lochia look like after childbirth?
Every woman should monitor whether her lochia discharge is normal after childbirth. This ensures that the recovery process the body will pass without complications.
So what kind of discharge after childbirth is considered normal? In fact, the color of lochia after childbirth differs depending on how much time has passed since childbirth. Regardless of the method of delivery - natural birth or cesarean section, lochia should be:
- Very heavy, bright red bleeding for the first few hours. They may contain dried blood clots. The first breastfeeding of the baby causes the uterus to contract and the discharge of lochia occurs more intensely.
- Bright red, perhaps more transparent discharge, volume up to 250 ml. per day for the first 2-3 days. With sudden movements, walking or when examined by a gynecologist, the discharge becomes more abundant.
- Brown discharge similar to menstrual discharge. Quite abundant, but ordinary pads can handle them quite well. Such discharge after childbirth lasts about 5-7 days.
- Brown, rarely red, sometimes almost transparent, slightly slimy, varying in intensity. Either they almost stop, then again they become a little more abundant. Lochia develops in this form after childbirth for 4-8 weeks.
Pulsating, sometimes slightly unpleasant, sensations in the uterus during breastfeeding are considered normal. In this case, the discharge may be more intense with an admixture of blood clots.
Duration of lochia discharge after childbirth
Young mothers often wonder how long the discharge lasts after childbirth. Everything is very individual. But after natural birth As a rule, the release of lochia after childbirth is less than after cesarean section. Longer discharge of lochia can be observed if the birth was difficult, in mothers with many children, in women giving birth over 30 years old, in primiparas, weakened women.
The normal duration of lochia is 5-8 weeks. After two months, the discharge should stop completely. It is at this time that gynecologists advise you to come for a consultation and examination without fail.
What should a woman be wary of in discharge after childbirth?
If immediately after childbirth there is a lot of discharge, this is normal. You should suspect bleeding if special postpartum pads are completely filled with blood within one hour. You need to immediately inform your doctor about this.
If, almost immediately after childbirth, the discharge stops or its quantity noticeably decreases, this is also a reason to consult a doctor. When lochia accumulates in the uterus, infection occurs, and this is very dangerous. ABOUT inflammatory process may also indicate heat body, fever or chills and abdominal pain.
You also need to pay attention to the smell of discharge after childbirth. It should be neutral and not harsh. In the first days, there may be a musty smell of lochia after childbirth - this is normal. A sharp, putrid odor is a sign of the development of pathogenic bacteria and inflammation.
Scarlet discharge more than two weeks after birth is also a reason to be wary. As an option, when the lochia turned brown and then red again.
If more than two pads are filled with discharge within an hour, emergency treatment is required. health care. It must be remembered that in case of uterine bleeding it can be life-threatening. It is urgent to call an ambulance.
When, against the background of a brownish smear, a week after birth, the appearance of scarlet discharge is observed, the lochia then stops, then again occurs quite intensely, one can suspect a pathology, namely, a lochiometer. This happens due to anatomical features uterus, due to the formation of a hematoma, which interferes with the discharge of secretions. Because of this, there is an accumulation of mucus, bloody discharge and even the remains of the placenta. This creates an unpleasant odor in the discharge.
Discharge after childbirth - when urgent medical attention is needed
So, signs that a woman needs emergency medical consultation after childbirth are:
- temperature increase;
- painful pulling sensations in the abdomen, possibly a burning sensation;
- unpleasant putrid odor of lochia;
- abruptly stopped discharge;
- sharply increased discharge.
The doctor must immediately conduct an examination for an enlarged uterus, conduct a diagnosis using ultrasound, and if the fears are confirmed, prescribe treatment. In some cases, antibiotics and drugs that promote uterine contraction are prescribed. But sometimes you have to resort to a scraping procedure.
If the signs are not obvious, but the woman in labor has concerns about the nature of the discharge and her well-being, you can always seek advice from the maternity hospital where the birth took place or any other. This is common practice.
Discharge after childbirth - prevention of complications after childbirth
In order to avoid problems and complications during recovery after childbirth, it is recommended:
- at the discretion of the doctor, immediately after childbirth, applying ice to the uterus and oxytocin injections to contract the uterus;
- lie down for the first 6-8 hours;
- periodically lie on your stomach, which improves the discharge of lochia;
- at first, do not lift anything heavy, do not make sudden movements, but also do not lie still, move little by little, especially if the birth took place naturally;
- breastfeeding on demand – frequent feeding leads to the natural production of the hormone oxytocin;
- A bandage or wrapping of sheets helps well in recovery after childbirth;
- water procedures must be carried out after each visit to the toilet using baby soap or even laundry soap; it is better to avoid gels for now;
- For the first time, it is better to choose postpartum pads; they are designed for the postpartum volume of discharge; change them more often - at least once every 4 hours. Later, you can switch to regular pads with a smooth surface and without fragrances to avoid irritation of the mucous membrane.
Under no circumstances in postpartum period Tampons cannot be used. They prevent the free flow of blood and can easily provoke inflammation.
Also, while lochia comes out after childbirth, sex, especially unprotected sex, is prohibited. This can both injure the unhealed uterus and cervix, and provoke the development of pathogenic bacteria. Only after the discharge has completely stopped can you start sex life. This period is individual and is 6-8 weeks. Yes, even after the cessation of lochia better first It’s time to use bactericidal protection to protect the uterus from the penetration of bacteria.
The release of lochia is an integral part of the recovery period of the body of every woman who has undergone childbirth. This process includes an important physiological component - cleansing the uterus and birth canal. And to recovery period passed without complications, it is extremely important for a new mother to follow the recommendations of doctors and be attentive to her state of health.
Every young mother is always worried about what they should be discharge after childbirth, is this process happening normally for her? Pay attention Special attention on the nature of the discharge and doctors who observe patients after the birth of babies. In the context of the normal development of the postpartum process, a very important question is how long such discharge lasts. It is no less important to control their smell, quantity and other characteristics. About how many days there's blood coming out after and other features of such discharges will be discussed in this article.
How is the postpartum period going?
So, the postpartum period begins at the moment when birth occurs placenta . In medicine, it is customary to distinguish two stages after childbirth:
- early stage lasting for two hours;
- late stage , lasting from 6 to 8 weeks.
In the postpartum period, the placenta, which has separated from the wall of the uterus, is released. At the place where it separated, a wound surface with gaping vessels is formed in the mucous membrane of the uterus, from which blood is released.
How long does it take for the uterus to contract after childbirth? This process begins immediately, and as long as the uterus contracts, its walls become tense and the torn vessels are compressed. During the first 2 hours after birth, moderate, bright red, bloody discharge appears. The normal discharge rate after childbirth in the first stage is no more than 0.4 liters.
If blood loss increases, then it is imperative to exclude hypotensive bleeding . Next, the doctor must make sure that there is no undetected rupture in the perineum, cervix, or vaginal walls of the woman in labor.
After labor and delivery of the placenta have occurred, the weight of the uterus is about 1 kg. But after a certain number of days, when the postpartum period ends, it returns to what is considered normal size, weighing approximately 70 g. To achieve this state, the uterus contracts, but these seductions are not as intense and painful as with contractions . How long the uterus contracts after childbirth also depends on the characteristics of the body. In this case, the woman feels only mild spasms, which manifest themselves mainly when the newborn sucks the breast. The fact is that when the nipples are stimulated, the production of a hormone is activated, which stimulates uterine contractions.
Postpartum uterine involution – a process that occurs gradually, 6-8 weeks. after childbirth. During this time, the wound surface heals, the size of the uterus returns to its original size. On the first day after the baby is born, the edge of the woman’s uterus is palpated at approximately the level of the navel. Already on the fourth day, its bottom is located in the middle between the navel and the womb. On the 9th day, the fundus of the uterus is located 1-2 cm above the womb. That is, every day after the birth of the child, the uterus decreases by about 1 cm.
The doctor will tell you in detail how bleeding occurs after childbirth and how long this process lasts before the woman is discharged from the maternity hospital. Depending on how much bleeding occurs after childbirth, the smell, amount and color of the discharge, the doctor can determine whether the postpartum period is normal.
Such selections are called “ lochia " At its core, lochia is the secretion of a birth wound, which contains bloody cells, mucus, decidua, plasma, and lymph. It is very important for expectant mothers to know exactly how long lochia lasts after childbirth. What lochia is and what lochia looks like is usually explained by the doctor before discharge from the hospital. Women should be sure to note how long lochia lasts after childbirth, because this is an indicator of whether the body’s recovery process is developing normally in a young mother.
The nature of the discharge in different time is like this:
- When the first two hours after birth are completed, reddish or brownish discharge occurs, its character is moderate. The duration of such discharge is from 5 to 7 days.
- In the first 3 days, the volume of discharge is approximately 300 ml, so the padding diaper should be changed approximately every 2 hours. Blood clots are likely to appear in the lochia, which is normal.
- From about 6-7 days the color of the lochia changes - they become yellowish or have a whitish tint. Their color depends on the quantity involved in the healing of postpartum wounds.
- At 9-10 days, watery lochia begins to appear, in which a lot of mucus can be seen. They have a light shade, gradually become more and more scanty, and by 3-4 weeks. disappear completely. That is, after a month, lochia usually stops.
Despite the fact that the exact answer to how long bleeding lasts after childbirth is always individual, normally it lasts on average from 6 to 8 weeks. Regardless of how many days after birth the discharge occurs, it is important that over time it becomes more and more scanty.
How long discharge lasts after childbirth depends on many things, so not everyone has the same amount of time. How long the discharge continues depends on the physiology of the body, the intensity of uterine contractions, the characteristics of delivery and a number of other points. Also, how long postpartum discharge lasts depends on whether the woman practices. At the same time, how long the discharge with blood stains lasts after childbirth is an indicator of whether the young mother’s body is recovering normally.
The actual question is how long the discharge lasts after. It should be understood that this surgery, and the body’s recovery after it lasts a longer period. Accordingly, the duration of lochia after cesarean section may be longer. However, how long the discharge lasts after a cesarean section largely depends on how successful the operation was and whether complications develop after it. As a rule, such discharge should last about 8 weeks.
A woman should be wary of smelly discharge after a caesarean section, as this may indicate the development of an inflammatory process. You also need to track how long the discharge lasts so as not to miss the symptoms of pathology. If you have any suspicions, it is better to consult a doctor.
Subinvolution of the uterus after childbirth
How exactly the period after childbirth proceeds from a physiological point of view is determined by the process of uterine contraction. The correct process of separation of the mucous membrane and release of blood clots from the uterine cavity is important.
Involution of the uterus, that is, its reverse development, is a very important physiological process for a woman, since her reproductive and menstrual functions. If the uterus contracts poorly, then there is a risk of developing purulent-septic complications.
Therefore, a woman should visit a doctor 10 days after she was discharged from the maternity hospital. The specialist conducts a general examination, as well as a gynecological examination.
Sometimes it can be diagnosed subinvolution of the uterus , when the return to previous parameters occurs very slowly. The doctor makes this diagnosis if during this period a very soft and loose uterus of large size is palpated, and its contraction does not occur under hand.
To confirm postpartum subinvolution, the specialist must prescribe ultrasound examination small pelvis. Such a study will make it possible to find the cause that is an obstacle to uterine contraction. As a rule, we are talking about the remains of the fetal membranes or placenta.
Factors that predispose to the manifestation of uterine subinvolution:
- multiple pregnancy ;
- polyhydramnios ;
- rapid labor or protracted ;
The doctor decides individually whether there is a need to hospitalize a woman. If a young mother does not complain about her health, her condition is generally satisfactory, and there are no remains of membranes or placenta in the uterus, the doctor prescribes the use of uterotonic drugs. Typically this is oxytocin , water pepper tincture, methylergometrine .
If foreign contents are detected in the uterus, they are removed using vacuum suction. Diffuse lavage of the uterus is also sometimes practiced, for which solutions or antiseptics are used.
For prophylaxis, the patient is also prescribed a short-term dose - they should be used for 2-3 days.
Lochiometra
This condition is also a complication after childbirth. During development lochiometers lochia lingers in the uterus. In most cases, this condition appears 7-9 days after the baby is born. This complication can be caused by the following reasons:
- blockage of the cervical canal of a mechanical nature;
- insufficiently active uterine contraction;
- the presence of a mechanical obstruction in the cervical canal (blood clots, remnants of membranes, decidua);
- the uterus is bent forward too much.
If during pregnancy there is overstretching of the fetal sac, and this occurs with multiple pregnancy, large sizes fetus, polyhydramnios, the ability of the uterus to contract weakens. This also happens with prolonged or rapid labor, incoordination labor activity, cervical spasms, caesarean section.
If lochiometra is diagnosed on time, then the woman’s general health does not have time to deteriorate, her pulse and body temperature do not change. In this case, the only sign pathological condition– these are very scanty discharges during a period when they should be abundant, or they stop completely.
In this case, lochiometra treatment is carried out after childbirth, and the woman’s condition gradually improves.
If the lochiometer is missed, if the doctor palpates the uterus, pain is noted, and he also notes that the size of the uterus has increased compared to the previous day. If the lochiometer was missed, the woman may subsequently develop.
Therefore, it is important to know what the normal discharge rate should be after childbirth, and to promptly consult a doctor if certain violations occur. Therapy consists, first of all, of ensuring the outflow of lochia from the uterus. Initially, the doctor prescribes conservative treatment:
- parenteral use or ;
- uterotonics ( oxytocin ), applying cold to the lower abdomen.
If a woman is diagnosed with a uterine flexion, the specialist performs bimanual palpation to return it to its normal position.
If the cervical canal is blocked, the specialist carefully widens it with a finger. Sometimes special devices are used for this purpose—Hegar dilators.
Provided that all the measures described above did not lead to the elimination of the pathological condition in 2-3 days, curettage is performed - emptying the uterine cavity with the help of instruments. Vacuum aspiration can also be used. To prevent inflammatory processes, women are prescribed antibiotics.
How long the lochia lasts after curettage depends on the period when the procedure was performed.
Postpartum endometritis
Another complication that is more dangerous to health compared to a lochiometer is endometritis or inflammation of the uterus. In a pregnant woman weakened, as this is necessary to prevent rejection of the fertilized egg, which the body considers foreign body. Restoration of immunological protection occurs approximately 5-6 days after the birth of the child or 10 days after it occurred abdominal delivery . That is why all young mothers have an increased risk of developing inflammatory diseases of the reproductive organs.
Currently, certain factors are identified that predispose to the development of endometritis after childbirth. They are indicated in the table below.
| During pregnancy |
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| During childbirth |
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| Are common |
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Signs of acute endometritis
- The onset of endometritis is acute, it develops from 3-4 days after birth.
- The discharge becomes brown and cloudy.
- Celebrated a little later purulent discharge having a greenish tint.
- A characteristic symptom is the appearance of discharge with an odor after childbirth, while the unpleasant odor of postpartum discharge usually resembles rotten meat.
- Getting worse general state– the temperature rises to 38-39 degrees, weakness, increased heartbeat, and malaise are noted.
- The results of peripheral blood tests indicate an inflammatory process (leukocytes increase, ).
Signs of endometritis in subacute form
This condition usually manifests itself after the woman has been discharged from the maternity hospital.
- In this case, it is important to note how much bleeding after childbirth - the bleeding remains until 10-12 days.
- The temperature rises - sometimes to febrile levels, sometimes slightly.
- If a woman ignores warning signs, the discharge becomes purulent and acquires bad smell.
Postpartum in any form is a reason for hospitalization. In a hospital setting, the patient undergoes a hysteroscopy to exclude the presence of remnants of membranes, placenta, and blood clots or to detect their presence. If any are found, they are removed by vacuum aspiration or curettage.
Diffuse lavage of the uterine cavity is also carried out, for which antibiotics and antiseptics are used. At least three such procedures are carried out.
What should you pay attention to?
Thus, it is important to pay attention to what bleeding after childbirth is like and how long this phenomenon lasts. If we talk about the norms for how long bleeding occurs after childbirth, then lochia should stop after about 3-4 weeks.
If a woman does not practice natural feeding, then monthly cycle she is recovering - this becomes noticeable by the nature of the discharge. If in about 1-2 months. after childbirth, leucorrhoea becomes profuse, resembling the white of an egg, this means that what is happening ovulation . Sometimes a woman notices that after giving birth, her periods last a little longer than before. How long your period lasts depends on the characteristics of the body, but such changes are normal.
At this time, it is very important to take care of postpartum contraception , which you should definitely talk about with your doctor. IN in this case The guide to action should not be the advice of friends or a forum - a specialist will help you make the optimal choice of contraceptives.
If breastfeeding is practiced, then when the baby is one month old, the discharge becomes mucus in nature and does not have an unpleasant odor. And throughout the entire period natural feeding they don't change their character.
However, a woman should be wary if yellow discharge suddenly appears 2 months after childbirth, when lochia has long been completed. Particular attention should be paid if the leucorrhoea has a bad odor, and discomfort and itching are felt in the genitals. In this case, you should immediately go to see a doctor.
The doctor will help you find out why they appear pathological discharge why he will take a smear to determine vaginal microflora , after which he will prescribe treatment.
If not elevated temperature, this most likely means that the discharge is a sign. But if a woman is also worried about temperature, pain in the lower abdomen, then this may be a sign of inflammation in the appendages or uterus. Therefore, in this case, you cannot hesitate to contact a specialist.
Hygiene in the postpartum period
In order for the uterus to contract actively and return to normal size, hygiene in the postpartum period is very important:
- It is recommended to sleep on your stomach so that pressure on the uterus promotes its active contraction and stimulation of the outflow of lochia.
- You should immediately visit the toilet as soon as the woman feels the first urge, since a full bladder and a full rectum worsen uterine contractions.
- It is important to change the pad every two hours, as lochia is a suitable breeding ground pathogenic bacteria which subsequently leads to infection.
- You should absolutely not use tampons at this time.
- Every day you need to wash yourself at least twice using boiled water or a weak solution potassium permanganate .
- It is worth practicing free feeding, putting the baby to the breast on demand, since when the nipples are stimulated, synthesis occurs oxytocin .
