Contraction of the uterus

After giving birth, the uterus and other reproductive organs of the postpartum mum need about six weeks to return to the pre-pregnancy condition, and this period is called puerperium. After the baby and placenta are delivered, the top of the uterus should shrink to the area of the belly button. In 7 to 10 days, the uterus will be located entirely within the pelvis. Postpartum massage in 7-10days after delivery will help uterus contract and recover.

Lochia (Postpartum Bleeding)

After giving birth, you will experience a heavy flow of blood from your vagina, which is like a slightly heavier menstrual period, it is called lochia. For the first 4-5 days, it is heavier than a menstrual period, and mostly in red color. 1 or 2 weeks after delivery, it should taper off to lighter spotting in brown color, and gradually fade to yellow or white color. Lochia should stop flowing around 4 to 6 weeks after delivery. The color and volume of the lochia indicates the healing condition of the area, where the placenta was attached to the uterus.

Please see your doctor immediately if you are in any of the following situations:

1. Having heavy bright-red bleeding after giving birth.
2. Passing large clots of blood.
3. Lochia has a foul smell.
4. Having prolonged red bleeding and experiencing fever and pain in your abdomen.
5. Lochia completely stopped within two weeks of delivery.
6. If bright red spotting reappears after lochia has already turned brown or white.