Lochia is postpartum bleeding/discharge coming from the place where the placenta was attached to the uterine wall and is present whether the birth was vaginal or via caesarean. Did you know that just after delivery, that wound is the size of a dinner plate?! It can be very challenging to let yourself recover or feel like you "deserve" rest after childbirth, but remind yourself that there is so much interior healing going on.
General timelines are listed in the graphic above, but factors such as activity level, breastfeeding, etc. can have an effect on how long each stage lasts.
If you have red bleeding after you've already moved to lochia serosa or alba, your body is probably telling you that you're doing a bit too much too soon. You just did a BIG job, and you need time to recuperate, even if things went smoothly. Scale back your activity (as possible) for a bit.
Clots less than the size of a ping-pong ball are generally normal during the first few days. If you fill a pad in less than an hour, run a fever, notice an unusual smell or color, or just feel "off", don't hesitate to call your doctor as there could be an infection.
Disclaimer: I am not a medical practitioner. This is intended as general information. Please reach out to your doctor with any questions or concerns.
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