If you’ve just had a baby (or are about to), you’re probably neck-deep in onesie laundry, nipple cream, and unsolicited advice. But there’s one thing almost no one prepares you for: the postpartum bleeding. Not just a little spotting. We’re talking about a full-on physical purge. It’s called lochia, and it’s one of the most honest parts of postpartum recovery.
Lochia is postpartum bleeding. It’s your uterus clearing out everything it no longer needs—blood, mucus, tissue, amniotic fluid, and remnants of the placenta. It’s a slow, steady unravelling of what your body held during pregnancy. It’s not just gross, it means your body is healing. It means your uterus is shrinking.
Here’s the thing: postpartum bleeding is normal. But normal doesn’t mean the same for everyone. Everyone experiences it differently. Let’s dive into what you can expect.
So, how long does post-birth bleeding last?
Most people bleed for 4 to 6 weeks after giving birth, according to the WHO. That’s the average. Some stop around two weeks. Others keep going closer to eight. There’s no one-size-fits-all here, because every uterus has its own pace. Some days it’ll feel like it’s winding down. Other days it might ramp up again, especially if you’ve been up and doing too much. That’s your body tapping you on the shoulder, tell you to rest.
What changes can you expect over the 6 weeks of lochia?
Lochia doesn’t all look the same throughout the 6 or so weeks, and it doesn’t follow a perfect timeline. But knowing the general rhythm can help you feel a little more grounded in the chaos. Let’s break it down:
- Lochia Rubra (Day 1 to ~Day 4–7):This is the heavy, red stage. Like the worst day of your period, but longer. Expect bright red blood, some clots (small ones are okay), and a noticeable flow. You’ll need the real-deal maternity pads for this (more on this here).
- Lochia Serosa (~Day 4 to Day 10):Your bleeding lightens in both flow and colour. Think pinkish-brown. Still happening, but gentler. You might feel hopeful it’s almost over. (Spoiler: it’s not. But you’re getting there.)
- Lochia Alba (~Day 10 to 6 weeks):White or yellowish discharge. It might last a few days or several weeks. This is your uterus doing its final sweep. Spotting is common here. So is irritation when you realize, oh cool, still bleeding.
What does the colour of postpartum bleeding mean?
Here’s what you might see:
- Bright red: Expected in the first few days.
- Pink or brown: A normal shift as your body heals.
- Yellow-white: Final stretch. Nearly done.
- Red again after it faded: Probably from overdoing it. Sit down.
If your bleeding ever soaks a maternity pad in under an hour, or the clots are bigger than a golf ball, pause. That’s not typical. It’s time to see your doctor.
How can you tell if your postpartum bleeding is normal or not?
Some postpartum bleeding is part of healing, but if it changes suddenly or feels off, it could be a warning sign. Here’s a guide of what is normal and what is not, according to the Cleveland Clinic.
Totally normal:
- Steady but manageable flow
- Small clots
- Gradual decrease in bleeding
Not normal (and should be checked out):
- Greenish/foul-smelling discharge (think infection)
- Fever or chills
- Dizziness or weakness
- Bleeding that suddenly becomes heavy again
- Clots the size of golf balls
This isn’t about being paranoid. It’s about paying attention. Your body is loud when something’s wrong. Listen.
Tips for managing postpartum bleeding
- Don’t rush recovery: Even if you feel “fine,” your uterus is still a wound site. If you start bleeding more after feeling better, it’s a sign: slow down.
- Drink water like it’s your job: Hydration supports healing. It also keeps your tissues and hormones a little happier, which you’ll appreciate.
- Keep an eye on flow: Not obsessively. Just enough to notice if something shifts. A note in your phone or even a mental check-in works.
Find more tips here.
What products actually help during postpartum bleeding?
Let’s talk maternity products for post-birth bleeding. Because spoiler: your regular period pads are a joke against lochia.
Nua’s Maternity Pads are built for this exact phase. Long, cushioned, breathable, and designed without all the plasticky stuff that makes you feel like you’re wearing a diaper. They’re toxin-free, super absorbent, and soft enough for the most tender version of yourself. Plus, the adhesive back means it actually stays put, which is more than we can say for most things in postpartum.
You could also opt for Nua’s Maternity Panties. These high-waisted, disposable undies don’t dig, don’t roll down, and absolutely don’t mess with C-section scars. They’re stretchy, leakproof, and breathable. Basically, they’re designed for bodies doing something incredibly hard and incredibly beautiful.
FAQs
- Can lochia affect how I feel emotionally?
Yes. Hormonal shifts combined with physical recovery can mess with your mood. It’s normal to feel raw, overwhelmed, or both. - Can I use tampons for postpartum bleeding?
Nope. Not until your doctor gives the green light. Tampons can introduce bacteria while your uterus and cervix are still healing. - What happens if I start bleeding again after it stopped?
Could be overexertion. But if it gets heavier or comes with pain, check in with your doctor. - Is it okay to exercise while still bleeding?
Gentle movement is fine if you feel up to it, but anything that increases bleeding means it’s too much, too soon. - Do I need to track my bleeding every day?
Not obsessively, but noticing shifts helps. Think of it as a way to stay in conversation with your body.
Lochia after birth isn’t just blood. It’s a sign your body is working hard to close one chapter and begin the next. You’re not broken. You’re healing. And healing is not linear.
Don’t downplay what your body is doing. Don’t rush past this phase. Respect the process. Surround yourself with what supports you, from rest, hydration, patience, to products that get it.
You brought life into the world. This bleeding? It’s your body making space for you again. That deserves respect, not shame. And definitely not silence.
