Postpartum Bleeding (Lochia): What's Normal and What's Not?

Lochia is a completely normal part of postpartum recovery, and every mum experiences it regardless of whether she had a vaginal birth or a caesarean.

For most mums, lochia lasts around four to six weeks. If you are still bleeding past that point, it is worth checking in with your doctor or gynaecologist.

The flow does not stay heavy the entire time. It gradually lightens over the weeks as your uterus heals and contracts back to its pre-pregnancy size. Knowing what to expect at each stage makes the whole process feel much more manageable.

Lochia moves through three distinct stages, and the colour is one of the most reliable signals of where you are in recovery.

In the first few days after delivery, bleeding is heavy and bright red. You may also pass a few small clots. In weeks one to two, flow slows and shifts to pink or brownish. By weeks three to six, it lightens further to yellow or white before stopping altogether.

Each colour change is a sign that your body is healing. If the flow returns to bright red after it had already begun to lighten, or if you notice an unusual smell, those are worth paying attention to and discussing with your healthcare provider.

Some variation in flow is completely normal, but there are specific signs that need prompt medical attention.

Contact your doctor or gynaecologist if you notice clots larger than a golf ball, bright red bleeding that suddenly becomes heavier after it was already slowing down, a foul smell from the discharge, dizziness or weakness, or severe cramps that do not ease.

These signs can indicate retained placental tissue, infection, or excessive blood loss, all of which need to be assessed by a medical professional. Do not wait to see if things improve on their own. When in doubt, always call your doctor.

Yes, and it can catch you off guard if you are not expecting it

Bleeding tends to be heavier in the morning or after a breastfeeding session because breastfeeding causes the uterus to contract. Standing up after sitting for a while can also produce a sudden gush, which is simply gravity at work rather than a sign that something is wrong.

This is one of the clearest reasons why rest is so important in the early weeks. Doing too much too soon, whether walking longer distances, carrying heavy loads, or returning to exercise, can cause the flow to pick up again. If activity consistently causes a significant increase in bleeding, take it as your body's signal to slow down and give yourself more time.

Comfort and practicality are the two things that matter most during this period.

Regular pads do not manage well in the first week. You will need thick, heavy-duty postpartum pads for the heaviest days. Tampons and menstrual cups should be avoided during lochia, as these can disrupt healing and cause infection or irritation.

The underwear you choose needs to hold those pads securely without digging in, rolling down, or causing irritation around any stitches or tender areas. High-waisted, soft cotton underwear with a full coverage seat and a gentle, non-restrictive waistband is ideal. Our maternity underwear is designed with exactly this in mind: a fabric blend that is breathable and gentle against sensitive postpartum skin, with enough coverage to keep everything comfortably in place throughout the day and night.

Having three to four pairs to rotate through is worth planning for before your due date. The last thing you need in those first days home is to be uncomfortable in what you are wearing.