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Ask A Childbirth Educator
Questions and Answer

Q. How long is it normal to bleed after having a baby? My bleeding was brown but now it is bright red again. Should I be concerned?

A. Women can bleed up to 4-6 weeks postpartum, though some women will stop bleeding much sooner and it is normal. The lochia (postpartum discharge) begins as bright red the first few days after birth, and gradually turns to brown, eventually becoming yellowish or clear. If your bleeding had become brown, and went back to bright red, it is your body's way of telling you to take a rest. You are too active. Continuing to maintain your pace will only prolong your postpartum recovery. Even though childbirth is a normal process, there are still many changes your body needs to adjust to after you baby is born. Your postpartum discharge is one way to "keep tabs" on how well you are responding to your body's needs. If your bleeding turns bright red again and also has a foul odor or you are running a fever or feel like you are developing flu, it is important that you contact your caregiver, as you may have contracted a uterine infection. Otherwise, if you have no other symptoms, just remember to slow down, put up your feet and enjoy your baby for a while. Taking good care of yourself will pay off in later years, especially if you choose to have more children.

Karen Klimsak-Ungar, CCE has been a certified childbirth educator for Birth Works® since 1996. She is currently Managing Editor for the Birth Works newsletter, sits on the Birth Works Board of Directors, and serves on their National Trainee Review Committee. A happily married mother of two, she also continues to teach Birth Works classes as well as private classes.

Karen will answer your questions on fertility, pregnancy, birth, breastfeeding and babies. Her advice does not take the place of your practitioner. Personal answers will not always be possible.