Postpartum Bleeding

Topic Overview

Immediately after delivery, you will have a bloody discharge (lochia) from the vagina. This will turn pinkish within a week and become white or yellowish after about 10 days. Lochia may last for 4 to 6 weeks, but it should be less bloody after 2 weeks. It can come and go for about 2 months.

Use pads, rather than tampons, during this time. If you have a tear next to the vagina (perineal tear) or an episiotomy that is healing, change the pad at least every 4 hours to prevent irritation and infection.

How much bleeding is too much?

Call your doctor right away if you:

• Have bleeding that soaks through your usual pad each hour for 2 or more hours.
• Have bloody discharge that continues beyond 4 to 6 weeks.
• Pass blood clots larger than a golf ball over several hours.

Don't be concerned if you pass occasional blood clots, as long as they are smaller than a golf ball.