After birth, you should expect some vaginal bleeding and discharge, called ‘lochia.’ The flow may start heavy but will gradually get lighter and stop, usually after 2-3 weeks.
Three Stages of Postpartum Discharge
The length and appearance of lochia can vary from person to person. Here’s what you might expect:
1-4 Days Postpartum:
- Blood Color: Bright to dark red
- Flow: Light to heavy, similar to a period
- Clots: Small clots are normal
- Cramping: You might feel mild, period-like cramping
4-14 Days Postpartum:
- Blood/Discharge Color: Pinkish or brownish
- Flow: Light; may be watery
- Clots: Expect little to no blood clots
Around Day 14 (up to six weeks):
- Discharge Color: Yellowish white
- Flow: Expect little to no blood (you might have spotting)
- Clots: Expect little to no blood clots
When Should You Call Your Health-Care Provider?
Contact your health-care provider if you notice any of these symptoms in the weeks after giving birth:
- A foul-smelling odor worse than your usual period
- Excessive bleeding or discharge, like soaking a pad every hour
- Large, golf-ball-sized clots or excessive clotting
- Fever, chills, or flu-like symptoms
- Swelling or pain around your vaginal area
- Dizziness or feeling faint
- Excessive cramping or pelvic pain
If you can’t reach your health-care provider, call 811 to speak with a nurse who can help you decide if you need to visit the emergency department.
Services related to this information:
- Contact your Public Health Nurse for immunizations and other prenatal support.
- 811 HealthLine (Newfoundland & Labrador) – Call 811 or 1-888-709-2929 / TTY 1-888-709-3555
Eastern Zones:
