Pregnancy is almost long enough for you to forget what having a period feels like.
But rest assured, the first period postpartum will swoop in to remind youpotentially with a vengeance.
We asked the experts who would know best.
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Known as lochia, this postbirth vaginal discharge is not the same as the return of your regular cycle.
Women may also notice blood clots but shouldnt be alarmed.
These are more likely in the beginning and will stop as well after a few days.
There’s no way to sugarcoat it: Lochia lasts a long time.
Four to six weeks of bleeding and discharge after birth is common.
If the heavy bleeding doesn’t begin to subside after several days, check in with your physician.
It is important to discuss any heavy or prolonged bleeding with your doctor, she says.
Lochia alba lasts anywhere from 12 days to six weeks and is characterized by yellowish white discharge.
Can I use a tampon after giving birth?
Women should avoid using tampons until at least their six-week check-in after labor, says Dr. Shepherd.
Pads or postpartum diapers are your best bet for dealing with lochia.
When will my regular period return after giving birth?
(So essentially just after lochia ends.)
That doesn’t mean it’s possible for you to’t get pregnant while breastfeeding.
Namely, you have to beexclusivelybreastfeeding.
How long does the first postpartum period last?
Its common for your period to look different after giving birth.
Your body is adjusting and hormones are changing, so this is completely normal, says Dr. Shepherd.
The irregularity won’t last forevertypically periods return to normal about a year after giving birth she says.
When is postpartum bleeding cause for concern?
But before you spiral withpostpartum anxiety, know that this is normal after giving birth.
One in five birthing parents will experience a perinatal mood and anxiety disorder.
Any one of these symptoms is worth a call to your doctor to rule out any complications.
You should also pay attention to how your overall health is, Dr. Shepherd says.
Excessive bleedingmore than a pad an hourcan be a sign ofpostpartum hemorrhage, which is rare but extremely serious.
Macaela MacKenzie is a writer and editor specializing in wellness.
