What's normal
Bleeding after birth, called lochia, is normal and happens to everyone — whether you had a vaginal birth or caesarean. It's how your body sheds the lining of the uterus after pregnancy. At first it's like a heavy period, bright red, and may include some small clots. Over the following days and weeks it gradually becomes lighter, changing from red to pink or brown, and then to a creamy yellow before stopping.
Lochia typically lasts around four to six weeks, easing off over that time. It's usually heaviest in the first few days.
How it changes over time
You'll usually notice the flow reduce week by week. It can temporarily increase a little when you're more active or when breastfeeding (which makes the uterus contract), and that's normal. Use maternity pads rather than tampons during this time, as tampons can increase infection risk while your body heals.
A brief increase with activity is expected — a sudden, sustained increase is not.
When to seek help urgently
Seek urgent care if you soak a pad in an hour or less, pass large clots (bigger than a golf ball), have bleeding that suddenly gets heavier or turns bright red again after slowing, notice a foul smell, or develop fever, chills or severe tummy pain — these can signal heavy bleeding or infection. Call your midwife, hospital, or 000 for severe bleeding or if you feel faint.
If you're unsure whether your bleeding is normal, it's always okay to ask. A telehealth consult can assess your symptoms and advise whether you need to be seen in person.
References & sources
- 1.Postnatal depression — Pregnancy Birth & Baby
- 2.Postnatal depression — healthdirect
- 3.Your body after having a baby — Pregnancy Birth & Baby
This content is general information and not a substitute for individual medical advice. Please consult a GP for your personal situation.
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