Bleeding after childbirth – what does it mean and how long does it last?

Bleeding after childbirth of greater or lesser intensity affects every parturient. The uterus during pregnancy increases in size by up to 20 times. No more surprisingly, a sizable wound is created in her cavity after delivery. The phenomenon of excretion of a certain amount of mucus, membranes and blood after the baby is born is called “puerperal feces.” Such bleeding is indicative of the uterine cleansing process after 9 months of pregnancy. It is difficult to determine exactly how long postpartum bleeding lasts, although it usually ends in the middle of the puerperium ie. About 1.5 months after delivery. The coloration of the mucus is less and less red over time, and the amount of clots is visibly reduced. If such bleeding intensifies and has an unpleasant odor, it is a sign to see a doctor as soon as possible. Pre-partum bleeding is a wake-up call for the pregnant woman and may indicate placental detachment. Just after childbirth, the uterus’ natural protective mechanisms protect against the intrusion of pathogens and the systematic, physiological contractions of the uterus cause the blood vessels to close, which reduces the gates of potential infection.

Bleeding in the puerperium

Postpartum bleeding is closely related to puerperal feces. How long postpartum bleeding lasts is determined by the rate of recovery of the woman’s body – age, health and the course of the pregnancy. During the puerperium, bacterial infection and the discharge of purulent secretions from the genital tract can occur quite easily. Stopping postpartum bleeding is, of course, a basic activity regarding personal hygiene in the postpartum period, however, tampons must not be used for this purpose, only cotton pads. Since it is impossible to predict how long postpartum bleeding will last, stock up on several large packs of postpartum sanitary pads and absorbent pads. After about 10 days postpartum, spotting should be less frequent and turn yellow-white. If there is still bleeding 6 weeks after delivery, do not underestimate it and immediately refer to a gynecologist. It is worth noting that postpartum bleeding does not only affect the uterus. Rectal bleeding after childbirth can indicate thrombotic lesions, which are a common complaint after childbirth. In addition, constipation and hemorrhoids are not uncommon. The passage of stool and urine is accompanied by pain and burning. This has to do with the presence of stitches from the perineal incision during labor.

Postpartum blood – characteristics

The bleeding that occurs in the puerperium both in color and smell resembles menstrual blood. Long bleeding after childbirth may indicate a slower uterine shrinking process. This is a dangerous situation, as it often results in the development of an infection or even leads to severe hemorrhaging. Bleeding a month after giving birth is not yet a cause for concern. However, if heavy and prolonged bleeding in the postpartum period is accompanied by abdominal pain, high fever and chills, it is worth seeing a specialist. This can be the result of lack of or inadequate personal hygiene, or more serious conditions like hematoma of the reproductive tract or damage to it. There is also the possibility, albeit small, of leftover placenta lodging in the uterus of the newly pregnant mother. The postpartum breech may not have been accurate and there may have been an oversight. When puerperal bleeding is significantly prolonged, doctors may decide on drug treatment – hormonal treatment with progestogens (pills or injections). 

See also: Water birth. Advantages and disadvantages