Postpartum Bleeding (Lochia): What's Normal & What's Not
Lochia is the postpartum bleeding that occurs as your uterus sheds its lining after birth. It starts heavy and red, becomes lighter and pinkish, then white or yellow, lasting 2-6 weeks. Heavy bleeding returning, large clots, or foul smell need medical attention.
Lochia timeline
Lochia changes color and amount over several weeks.
- Days 1-4: heavy, bright red, may pass small clots.
- Days 4-10: lighter, pinkish-brown.
- Days 10-14+: creamy, white, or yellow.
- Total duration: 2-6 weeks.
Track how you feel and spot the pattern
PhaseBloom logs your symptoms and mood against your cycle in seconds a day, so you can see which days hit hardest and prepare before they arrive.
Track how you feel and spot the pattern
PhaseBloom logs your symptoms and mood against your cycle in seconds a day, so you can see which days hit hardest and prepare before they arrive.
Frequently asked questions
How long does lochia last?
Lochia typically lasts 2-6 weeks. It gradually lightens in color and amount. If heavy bleeding returns or you pass large clots after it has lightened, contact your doctor.
When should I worry about postpartum bleeding?
Contact your doctor if you soak a pad in an hour, pass clots larger than a golf ball, have foul-smelling discharge, or develop fever. These can signal infection or retained tissue.