Bleeding
Everyone bleeds after childbirth. The vaginal bleeding after birth is known as lochia. The lochia is a combination of mucus, tissue and blood that the uterus sheds as it replaces its lining after birth. Bleeding often lasts for around four to six weeks, but could last up to 12 weeks after the baby is born.
Postpartum hemorrhage is more bleeding than normal after the birth of a baby. It is more likely with a cesarean birth. It most often happens after the placenta is delivered, but it can also happen later.
Most cases of postpartum hemorrhage occur at delivery or soon after, but you may bleed heavily after you go home from the hospital. If this happens, call your healthcare provider right away.
Tell your healthcare provider or call 9-1-1 if you have any of these symptoms or signs:
- Bright red bleeding beyond the third day after birth
- Blood clots bigger than a plum
- Bleeding that soaks more than one sanitary pad an hour and doesn’t slow down or stop
- Blurred vision
- Chills
- Clammy skin
- Rapid heartbeat
- Dizziness
- Weakness
- Nausea
- Faint feeling