Lochia

After childbirth, a woman’s uterus begins to purge itself of things such as blood, mucus and loose bits of uterine tissue. Typically, this period lasts from about four to six weeks and involves vaginal discharge. This discharge will begin as a reddish fluid and become more watery as the weeks move on. Its color will slowly move from red to rust and finally yellow.

Some women notice a less than pleasant odor relating to lochia. While this is usually harmless if, in combination with fever, chills, cough, respiratory problems or abdominal pain, an examination by a doctor to rule out infection is strongly suggested.

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