Regardless of the manner in which labor occurs, and regardless of the size of the fetus, after each delivery, the woman will have special postpartum discharges, called lochia. Allocations are bloody in nature, lasting no less than four weeks, on average - one and a half to two months. If we talk about the reasons for the allocation of lochia from the uterus, then it is not difficult to understand the nature of their origin. The formation of lochia can be considered as a natural reaction of the body to childbirth, as they form on the site of the placenta rejection. Over time, the selection will significantly change its color and turn out frankly bloody to brown or even dark brown, and then - gradually to lighten up. It is worth paying attention to the color change, as well as the smell that accompanies this phenomenon, since the wound formed on the site of placental rejection is very vulnerable to various kinds of infections. In case the infection takes place, the lochia will rapidly change its color and bring with it a not very pleasant smell. This phenomenon should be considered as an appeal to immediately consult a doctor, since postpartum discharge should not dramatically change its color.
Do not be scared if in the first week the lochia will represent too much bleeding, typical for menstruation. In fact, the discharge can indeed be quite significant, but it only says that the body is cleared after childbirth. It is noteworthy that postpartum discharge is much faster if there is breastfeeding. By the end of the first month after labor , only so-called smearing discharges can remain , which, in turn, must disappear in a matter of days. Within normal limits, if in the first couple of weeks too abundant discharge is observed . Symptoms of infection are painful sensations and a sharp unpleasant odor, as well as the presence of too many blood veins or purulent clots. All this indicates the need to consult a doctor.
By the end of the second week, the lochia should change significantly in structure, even if before that they were abundant and bright-bloody. Postpartum discharge should lighten a little and acquire a slimy character, but the number of them may remain the same. Lochias are observed in any case, even if the birth was through a cesarean section. It is compulsory to comply with personal hygiene measures: regular showers and the use of gaskets. It is forbidden to use tampons during Lochi, as this can lead to blockage of the cervix, as well as to serious injuries and abscesses due to the penetration of bacteria into the uterus. Do not also take too hot baths during postpartum discharge and use hygiene products and underwear that can cause allergies. Another warning of doctors is that it is advisable to start a sexual life only after the complete cessation of lochia.