You’ve just given birth! Hooray! Now, put on this adult nappy to manage the post-partum bleeding. The glamour of childbirth is real. And sometimes, very unexpected. Many, many mums report being taken by surprise by the level and duration of postpartum bleeding.

Let’s take a closer look at why it happens, how to manage and when to speak with your Doctor or Midwife.

Postpartum bleeding, officially referred to as ‘lochia’, is a completely normal part of the post-birth experience. Similar to a period, lochia contains blood, mucus and tissue from your uterus that needs to be expelled after giving birth. There are actually three stages associated with lochia:

• The first stage or lochia rubra - This stage starts straight after birth and lasts for 3 to 4 days and is when your bleeding will be heaviest. The blood will often resemble a normal period in colour (bright or dark red) and you may notice some small clots alongside period-esque cramping.

• The second stage or lochia serosa - The second stage of post-partum bleeding is generally a bit lighter than the first, similar to the middle to end of your regular period. Blood is usually pink in colour and may not seem quite as thick. You may still notice a few small clots but they’ll start to be less visible and frquent. Stage two lasts for around a week, sometimes a little bit longer.

• The third stage or lochia alba - The final stage of postpartum bleeding. Similar to the very end of your period with only very light bleeding and/or spotting. Blood may turn into more of a yellow/clear discharge as your healing progresses. This stage generally lasts for between two and six weeks.

While postpartum bleeding is completely normal and expected after both a vaginal and c-section birth, there may be times when you wonder if what is happening in your own body is normal. Here are the most common concerns for new mums (and what to do about them!)

I’m bleeding a lot in the first few days and seem to be passing clots

I’m bleeding a lot in the first few days and seem to be passing clots.
In the first stage of lochia, a higher volume of heavy bleeding and clots is considered normal. This usually lasts for 2-4 days. If the clots are very large and/or occurring after those initial first days, it’s a good idea to contact your Doctor or Midwife.

My postpartum blood smells quite strongly

Much like your period, lochia will have a fairly distinctive smell. Sometimes described as smelling metallic and rusty it shouldn’t smell awful. A rotten or fishy type of scent often means something is awry and it is best to contact your caregiver to discuss.

My bleeding seemed to stop after a couple of weeks

The spectrum of bleeding time is very broad. Some women will find they bleed for a full six weeks while others may notice that their bleeding all but stops within 3 or 4 weeks. As long as you are feeling healthy and well and are healing, the length of your postpartum bleed should be nothing to worry about.

Remember, if you’re feeling concerned, it’s always best to contact your caregiver.

One of the most challenging parts of postpartum bleeding is managing it comfortably. This is made especially tricky when you’re dealing with a very sensitive, post-birth body and/or recovering from a c-section. If you’re used to using tampons or a menstrual cup, having to switch to pads can also be a bit of a challenge.

Here are our top tips for managing postpartum bleeding comfortably (or as comfortably as possible!)

• Invest in some postpartum disposable underwear. Many mamas (this one included) find these far more comfortable than pads, especially in the very early days. Super soft, stretchy and highly absorbent, they’ll keep you protected and comfy.
• Purchase more disposable underwear and/or pads than you think you’ll need! You’ll be surprised how quickly you go through everything, especially in the first week or two!
• Black undies are the best! You’ll inevitably experience some leakage at some stage in your postpartum journey. Buying a bulk pack of black, cotton undies that can be popped in the wash without any need for special lingerie wash bags or similar will make life so much easier, especially when juggling a newborn!
• Make sure you’re eating and drinking enough. Your body is healing mama! And looking after your new little bundle. Blood loss is normal but it can take its toll on your energy levels. Make sure you’re eating and drinking regularly to ensure you’re getting enough calories and staying well hydrated.
• If you’ve had any trauma to your perineum (bruising, tearing, stitches), it can be very tender. Your caregiver will provide you with instructions for helping the area to heal but ensuring it’s kept clean is key. The Lactivate® Peri Bottle helps make postpartum cleaning a little bit easier with its ergonomic design that features a narrow angled neck that allows you to clean your perineum and vulva easily.

Featured Product

The Lactivate New Mum Pack is designed to make your postpartum journey easier and more comfortable. Whether you're soothing sore nipples with our Silver Nursing Cups or freshening up "down there" with the Peri bottle - you'll have everything you need to survive (and thrive) as a new mum. Plus, you'll love our absorbent Nursing Pads and Breast Ice & Heat Pack for added relaxation. Transform your transition into motherhood with Lactivate!

For more breastfeeding resources and blogs, check out our resource section