After giving birth, women experience a period of bleeding known as postpartum bleeding or lochia. The bleeding occurs as the body sheds the lining of the uterus following delivery.

In addition to postpartum bleeding, women also need to keep an eye out for the return of their menstrual cycle. Both postpartum bleeding and menstruation can vary in duration and intensity, which is why it’s essential to know what’s normal.

Postpartum Bleeding – What to Expect

Postpartum bleeding occurs immediately after childbirth and can last for up to 6 weeks. However, the duration of bleeding can vary depending on factors like whether a woman had a vaginal delivery or a c-section.

Vaginal delivery often results in heavier postpartum bleeding, while c-sections result in less bleeding. The presence of clots during postpartum bleeding is also common, especially during the first few weeks after delivery.

While the bleeding can be heavy, it should slowly decrease in intensity and volume over time. However, sudden increases in bleeding or the passage of large clots may indicate a problem and should be promptly discussed with a healthcare provider.

Similarly, if postpartum bleeding lasts longer than six weeks, it’s essential to seek medical advice immediately.

Getting Back to Normal after Postpartum Bleeding

It takes time for the body to recover after childbirth and postpartum bleeding. However, some things can help speed up the process.

It’s essential to avoid inserting anything into the vagina, such as tampons or douches, until a healthcare provider confirms that it’s okay to do so. Women should also get plenty of rest, stay hydrated, and eat healthy foods.

After postpartum bleeding stops, most women will have a follow-up appointment with their healthcare provider.

The appointment usually takes place six weeks after delivery and includes a physical examination and assessments like a pap test or a breast examination. It’s an opportunity for healthcare providers to ensure everything is healing correctly and address any concerns the woman may have.

Menstruation after Childbirth

Most women will have their first postpartum menstrual cycle between six weeks and six months after delivery. While breastfeeding can delay the return of menstrual periods, it’s not a guarantee.

Women can ovulate and get pregnant, even if they are breastfeeding.

The initial menstrual cycle after childbirth is unpredictable and may differ from regular pre-pregnancy periods. Women can also experience changes in menstrual flow, cramping, and pain.

These changes are all normal and typically resolve after the first menstruation.

When to Seek Medical Advice

It’s normal for postpartum bleeding and menstrual periods to differ between women and even within the same woman over time. However, certain symptoms can signal an underlying problem, and it’s essential to seek medical advice when they occur.

Women should seek medical attention if they experience any of the following symptoms:.

Excessive bleeding or passing large blood clots (larger than the size of a golf ball)
Bleeding that occurs suddenly and heavily after it has been tapering off
Bleeding that lasts longer than six weeks after delivery
Sharp pain in the lower abdomen or pelvis
Fever or chills
Offensive smelling discharge or discharge that is bright red or contains pus

Conclusion

Postpartum bleeding and menstruation are normal occurrences after childbirth, but it’s essential to know what’s normal and when to seek medical advice.

Women should pay attention to the duration and intensity of postpartum bleeding and be prepared for changes in menstrual flow and associated symptoms like cramping. Contact a healthcare provider if you have any concerns or you experience any of the symptoms listed above.