When should I be concerned about my first period after birth?

Call your doctor if you’re experiencing any of the following: Big blood clots: It’s normal to see small clots in your first postpartum period, but if they are larger than a quarter or last for several days, it could be a sign of a thyroid problem, infection, fibroids, or polyps.

How do you know if it’s your period or lochia?

Lochia is typically creamy white to red in colour, but it’s not to be confused with your actual period. The main difference between lochia and your period is that lochia will be lighter and more watery. It may also have a sweet smell and, unlike your period, lochia’s flow will increase when you exert yourself.

Why is my first period after pregnancy lasting so long?

Here again, things can go either way, Dr. Young says. Some women experience heavier, longer or more painful periods after having a baby. These changes may relate to a larger uterine cavity causing more endometrium (mucous lining the uterus) to shed.

Is dark brown blood normal after giving birth?

Lochia for the first 3 days after delivery is dark red in color. A few small blood clots, no larger than a plum, are normal. For the fourth through tenth day after delivery, the lochia will be more watery and pinkish to brownish in color.

Is your first period Brown?

Your first period should last anywhere from 2 to 7 days. It may be very light, with just a few spots of brownish blood. Or it may start and end more brownish, but be brighter red on heavier flow days.

Why is my period blood brown?

If you notice brown period blood at the start or end of your period, it’s because the blood is older and took longer to leave your uterus. The uterine lining darkens the longer it takes to leave the body.

Why is my postpartum blood Brown?

Is it normal to have brown discharge 4 weeks postpartum?

During the first four weeks postpartum, you will notice a pink-brown discharge called lochia. This is totally normal. Even though it might look like a period, it isn’t—just the natural process of your uterus shedding blood, mucus, and tissue after birth.

How long does it take to get your first period after birth?

Among women who do not breastfeed or who breastfeed on an irregular schedule, menstruation tends to return more quickly. A 2011 analysis of six previous studies found that most women got their first periods between 45 and 94 days after giving birth. One study in the review found that the average first period happened at 74 days postpartum.

How long does it take to get your period back after breastfeeding?

Women who bottle-feed can see their menstrual cycle return within six weeks of birth – and most will have menses back by ten to twelve weeks. Women who exclusively breastfeed may not get their period back for some time.

Is it normal to bleed bright red 6 weeks after giving birth?

Bright red bleeding that occurs six or more weeks after delivery is more likely to be your period. Pregnancy-related bleeding can increase with increased exertion or activity. If your discharge increases with exertion and decreases when you rest, it’s more likely to be lochia. Lochia also tends to have a distinct odor.