Vaginal bleeding right after your little bundle has arrived is not the most fun, but it's also not that bad...
Vaginal bleeding right after your little bundle has arrived is not the most fun, but it's also not that bad if you know what to expect. What you need to know about vaginal bleeding after your delivery: In most cases you'll bleed more than you have with any period you've experienced; especially if you're used to lighter periods. What's happening is that your uterus is shedding mucus, tissue, and blood (which all together is called lochia). At first the blood will be bright red but will darken and then lighten over time. Bleeding can last a long time; up to six weeks. However, you may get lucky; some women experience bleeding for just a couple of weeks. If you have a vaginal birth or a C-section, it doesn't matter, you'll still bleed. Be prepared with a stock supply of maxi pads, and not those little dainty ones either. Get the large thirsty pads. No tampons. I've never heard that tampons are unsafe after delivery, but if you had a vaginal birth, your vaginal canal doesn't need any more shocks (i.e. tampons). Get pads. If you have a hospital or birthing center birth, the nurse on duty will give you some big pads to use, so save yours for at home. Danger signs:
- If your blood changes color from darker red back to bright red.
- If you bleed through more than one pad an hour (over a few hours).
- If you feel something is not quite right - trust that gut.
