How long will postpartum bleeding last until it stops?

Written by Zhao Li Li
Obstetrics
Updated on January 08, 2025
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Generally, in normal childbirth or after cesarean section surgery, there is usually a small amount of vaginal bleeding, which typically subsides completely within about a week. If there is heavy bleeding after delivery, it is crucial to closely monitor the vaginal bleeding to rule out the possibility of delayed postpartum hemorrhage.

If the uterus contracts well and there is no retention of placental fragments, the area will generally be clean within about a week, albeit with some bloody discharge. Therefore, if there is abnormal vaginal bleeding postpartum, it is recommended to promptly re-examine to exclude the possibility of late bleeding, so as to avoid endangering life.

Other Voices

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Written by Liu Wei Jie
Obstetrics
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The difference between postpartum hemorrhage and menstruation

The difference between postpartum hemorrhage and menstruation varies whether it is a vaginal delivery or a cesarean section. The timing of postpartum bleeding varies, and it also relates to postpartum lochia. If the bleeding occurs within 24 hours, it is called severe postpartum hemorrhage; most frequently, we encounter bleeding after 24 hours. Typically, for vaginal deliveries, bleeding occurs within seven days. In cesarean sections, due to the uterine incision, healing is needed, and the duration of bleeding varies by individual and health, commonly lasting from one to two months post-operation. Postpartum bleeding is due to incomplete healing of the uterine lining, which is different from menstrual bleeding. Menstrual bleeding is usually heavier in the initial days and the blood is dark red with a cyclic pattern. In contrast, postpartum bleeding does not have a cyclic nature; it usually consists of fresh red or dark blood, whereas menstrual bleeding typically involves dark blood.

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Written by Zhang Lu
Obstetrics
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Is postpartum hemorrhage dangerous?

Postpartum hemorrhage refers to bleeding exceeding 500 milliliters within a short period after childbirth, or bleeding exceeding 1000 milliliters within 24 hours after childbirth. Postpartum hemorrhage is relatively dangerous because a large amount of bleeding in a short period of time after childbirth can cause the mother to experience hemorrhagic shock, and in severe cases, can lead to maternal death. Postpartum hemorrhage is currently the leading risk factor for maternal mortality. With increased understanding of the disease and improved treatment levels, the majority of postpartum hemorrhages can be managed successfully. The treatment of postpartum hemorrhage primarily involves early detection and early intervention. If symptoms of significant bleeding occur, it is essential to carefully identify the cause of the bleeding and provide targeted treatment. This can control the condition early and prevent worsening.

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Written by Zhang Yin Xing
Obstetrics
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Does postpartum breastfeeding cause bleeding?

Bleeding caused by postpartum breastfeeding generally occurs within 42 days after delivery, during which the mother has lochia secretion. Breastfeeding promotes the secretion of oxytocin, which acts on the uterus and causes it to contract, facilitating the expulsion of lochia and aiding in the recovery of the uterus. Typically, by 42 days postpartum, the uterus has returned to its non-pregnant size and the expulsion of lochia is essentially complete. Subsequent breastfeeding is not directly related to vaginal bleeding. Another situation is due to the increase in prolactin during lactation; menstrual periods may not have fully resumed in women who are breastfeeding, and abnormal uterine bleeding may occur. As long as the amount and duration of bleeding do not exceed normal menstrual flow, no special treatment is needed.

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Written by Zhang Lu
Obstetrics
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Can postpartum hemorrhage be treated?

Postpartum hemorrhage refers to bleeding exceeding 800 or 1000 milliliters within a short period after childbirth. It is currently the leading cause of maternal mortality in clinical practice. With the improvement of clinical treatment levels and the enhancement of diagnostic capabilities for postpartum hemorrhage, the vast majority of such cases can be well-managed. The keys to addressing postpartum hemorrhage effectively are early diagnosis and early intervention, which can lead to favorable outcomes. The main causes of postpartum hemorrhage include uterine atony, retained placenta and membranes, injuries to the soft birth canal, and coagulation disorders. When significant postpartum bleeding occurs, it is crucial to carefully investigate these four aspects to identify the cause and intervene accordingly, often leading to successful treatment outcomes.

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Written by Du Rui Xia
Obstetrics
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Postpartum constipation and bleeding from the anus what's going on?

When constipation occurs after childbirth and there is anal bleeding, it may be due to fissures caused by constipation or hemorrhoids causing blood vessel rupture and bleeding. Postpartum, due to the reduced activity of the mother and the consumption of too refined foods, waste cannot be smoothly expelled, leading to difficulty in defecation due to fecal impaction. During straining, this might cause rupture of the anus or fissures, or lead to hemorrhoids by disrupting local blood circulation. It is advisable to go to the hospital for a check-up to see if it is serious, and if necessary, treatment to stop the bleeding may be required.