What is lochia? Your guide to postpartum bleeding

Blood, discharge and a whole lot of questions. Here's what to expect from bleeding after birth.

There's plenty of conversation about what happens during childbirth. But what happens afterwards? Not quite so much.

And somewhere between the hospital bag checklist, the tiny baby clothes and the endless advice about sleep, there's something that deserves a little more attention.

Postpartum bleeding.

Because yes, even after nine months without a period, your body has a fair bit of bleeding left to do.

It's called lochia, and it's a completely normal part of recovering from childbirth.

So, what exactly is it? How long does it last? And how do you know what's normal?

Let's get into it.

What is lochia?

Lochia (pronounced LOH-kee-uh) is the vaginal bleeding and discharge you experience after giving birth.

It's made up of blood, mucus and tissue shed from your uterus as it recovers from pregnancy.

During pregnancy, your uterus develops a thick lining and an increased blood supply to support your growing baby. Once your baby and placenta have been delivered, your uterus begins returning towards its pre-pregnancy size, shedding blood and tissue along the way.

That's lochia.

And unlike your regular period, lochia happens after every kind of birth, including caesarean sections.

You can read more about what happens to your body after birth on the NHS website.

How long does lochia last?

The short answer? Several weeks.

According to the NHS, postpartum bleeding usually stops after around six to eight weeks, although it can last longer.

Lochia is generally heaviest in the first few days after birth, gradually becoming lighter as your uterus heals.

But everyone's recovery looks a little different.

Some people stop bleeding sooner. Others experience lighter discharge for several weeks. You might also notice temporary changes in your flow depending on your activity levels or whether you're breastfeeding.

The important thing is that your bleeding should generally become lighter over time.

If it starts getting heavier rather than lighter, speak to your midwife or healthcare professional.

The three stages of lochia, explained

Lochia doesn't stay the same throughout your recovery.

In fact, it usually goes through three stages, each with its own colour and consistency.

1. Lochia rubra: the red stage

When: Usually the first three to four days after birth.

This is the heaviest stage of postpartum bleeding.

You can expect bright or dark red blood, a heavier flow and sometimes small clots.

It's also when you'll probably appreciate having plenty of absorbent maternity pads to hand.

2. Lochia serosa: the pink or brown stage

When: Usually from around day four, lasting into the second week.

As your uterus continues to heal, bleeding generally becomes lighter.

You might notice pinkish, reddish-brown or brown discharge, with a thinner, more watery consistency.

The amount of blood should gradually decrease, although you may still need regular protection.

3. Lochia alba: the yellow or white stage

When: Often from around the second week onwards.

By this stage, discharge is typically much lighter and may appear creamy, yellowish or white.

There's usually much less blood, with the discharge made up mainly of mucus and other cells.

This stage can continue for several weeks before stopping altogether.

Remember: These stages are a general guide, not a strict timetable. Your lochia might not follow them exactly, and that's not necessarily a cause for concern.

Does lochia smell?

Yes, lochia can have a smell.

Because it contains blood and tissue, you might notice a metallic, slightly musty or menstrual-like smell.

What it shouldn't smell is strongly foul or unpleasant.

A noticeably offensive smell, particularly alongside a fever, worsening abdominal pain or feeling unwell, could indicate an infection.

If something doesn't seem right, contact your midwife or GP.

The NHS guide to the early days after birth explains the signs to look out for.

Is lochia different after a C-section?

Not as much as you might think.

Even if you've had an abdominal birth, you'll still experience vaginal bleeding afterwards.

That's because lochia comes from your uterus healing, not simply from the process of vaginal delivery.

Some people experience less lochia following a caesarean, but it varies, and you should still expect bleeding for several weeks.

And because you're also recovering from abdominal surgery, having comfortable, reliable postpartum protection can make those early days a little easier.

For more on recovery after abdominal birth, visit the NHS guide to C-section recovery.

Why does postpartum bleeding sometimes get heavier?

You might notice your bleeding temporarily becomes redder or heavier when you're breastfeeding.

That's because breastfeeding releases oxytocin, a hormone that encourages your uterus to contract. You may also experience cramps similar to period pains.

Increased physical activity can sometimes affect your bleeding, too.

But a sudden or significant increase in blood loss shouldn't be dismissed as a normal part of recovery.

If you're concerned about a change in your bleeding, get medical advice.

Lochia vs a period: what's the difference?

They might look similar, but lochia and menstruation are two very different things.

A period happens when your uterus sheds its lining as part of your menstrual cycle.

Lochia happens after childbirth as your uterus heals and clears out blood and tissue left over from pregnancy.

Lochia also tends to last much longer than a typical period and can be significantly heavier in the first few days.

And while your period might not return for months after giving birth, particularly if you're breastfeeding, lochia starts immediately after childbirth.

One important thing to remember: you can ovulate before your first postpartum period, so it's possible to become pregnant again before menstruation returns.

When should you worry about lochia?

Postpartum bleeding is normal. But there are some symptoms that shouldn't be ignored.

Contact your midwife, GP or maternity unit promptly if:

• Your bleeding is getting heavier rather than lighter.

• You pass large blood clots.

• Your discharge develops an unusual or unpleasant smell.

• You have a temperature above 38°C.

• You experience worsening abdominal or perineal pain.

Call 999 if you experience sudden, very heavy bleeding, particularly if you feel faint, dizzy or have a pounding heartbeat.

These symptoms can indicate postpartum haemorrhage or infection and need medical attention.

For more information, the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists explains heavy bleeding after birth.

What's the best protection for lochia?

Here's the thing about postpartum bleeding: it isn't a period.

It's often heavier, less predictable and happening while your skin is tender, healing and sometimes stitched.

That's why maternity pads are recommended during the early stages of recovery.

Unlike standard period pads, postpartum pads are designed to offer extended coverage and absorbency for heavier bleeding.

And because you'll be wearing them regularly, comfort matters just as much as protection.

Meet Mooncup Maternity & Postpartum Pads

Made for lochia, postpartum bleeding and discharge.

Our NEW Maternity & Postpartum Pads are extra-long and wide, with heavy-flow protection, secure wings and a soft 100% organic cotton topsheet that's gentle on sensitive skin.

No SAPs, synthetic fragrances or dyes.

Soft where it matters. Strong where it counts.

They're designed for every kind of birth, whether vaginal or caesarean, giving you one less thing to think about during recovery.

Shop Mooncup Maternity & Postpartum Pads

Care for the fourth. That bit when you're both in nappies.

The first 12 weeks after birth are often called the fourth trimester.

It's a time of enormous change. Your hormones are shifting, your body is healing and you're getting to know a whole new human.

And while there's plenty of attention on looking after your baby, we think the person who's just given birth deserves some of that care, too.

From the heavier days of lochia to the lighter weeks that follow, your body deserves protection designed for what it's going through.

Care for the Fourth. Because birth isn't where the care stops.