Women's Health

Maternity

Postpartum - Physical Side Effects

Vaginal Bleeding

Every woman experiences postpartum discharge - or lochia - following the birth of a baby. This is the way your body continues to get rid of leftover bllod, mucus, and placental tissue from the uterus. Initially, the bleeding will be bright red with a few small clots - similar to a heavy menstrual period. This should last only through the first week. Over the first two to six weeks following birth, the color will turn from bright red, to pinkish brown then fade to cream or white.

In the hospital, your nurses will provide you with heavy-duty sanitary pads. During your hospital stay, you may want to leave your nicer lingerie (panties and nightgowns) at home, in case you experience any leaking.

This bleeding usually stops in three to six weeks. At home, continue to use sanitary pads, and be sure to wash your hands after changing your pad. DO NOT use tampons douches or powders - these may introduce bacteria to your healing uterus and cause infection.

After delivery of the baby, you will be given a peri bottle (plastic bottle) to squirt warm water over your perineum (area of the opening to your vagina) to keep it clean. This not only keeps the area clean, but cn also be very soothing following a vaginal birth and/or episiotomy. Fill your peri bottle with comfortably warm water, and use after each time you use the restroom. Squirt the water from front to back, then gently dry yourself (also from front to back). Take a shower or tub bath every day, using soap and water. Do not use bubble bath during this healing time.

Report heavy vaginal bleeding (soaking more than one pad per hour), large clots, a foul odor, or unusual abdominal tenderness to your health care provider.