Lochia, the phases of lochia, postpartum intimate care, postnatal care and gentle cleansing after birth:
Lochia after birth: how long it lasts, the phases, and gentle intimate care with the intimate shower
Lochia is a completely natural part of the postpartum period and affects every woman, whether the baby was born vaginally or by caesarean. Right after birth, heavy bleeding sets in as the placenta detaches. The raw wound it leaves in the uterus is roughly the size of your palm and bleeds noticeably more than a normal period.
Alongside blood, lochia also contains tissue remnants such as mucous membrane, membranes, vernix, lymph and bacteria. It's your body's natural cleaning process, emptying and healing the uterus completely.
The phases of lochia: how it changes
The intensity and colour of lochia change over roughly four weeks:
- Phase 1 – Lochia rubra (days 1–4): Blood-red and very heavy, with clots (coagula), mucous membrane remnants and other tissue.
- Phase 2 – Lochia fusca/serosa (roughly days 5–10): Brownish-red to pink, thinner, with more lymph and white blood cells.
- Phase 3 – Lochia alba (from around week 2): Yellowish-brown to whitish, only small amounts now, mucous — a sign the wound is nearly healed.
- Final phase: Watery, clear or slightly whitish — the last wound fluid is expelled.
Gentle intimate care after birth: the intimate shower from Bidetlity
In the first days especially, the intimate area is sensitive and often swollen or injured. Gentle, hygienic cleansing matters all the more. The intimate shower from Bidetlity is a gentle alternative to toilet paper and helps you avoid irritation and infection in the sensitive genital area. It's ideal for daily care after birth and supports healing.
Afterpains and recovery: what you should know
After birth, the uterus contracts again through so-called afterpains. These contractions shrink the wound and close the blood vessels. Breastfeeding aids recovery through the hormone oxytocin. Women who have already given birth often feel these afterpains more intensely.
Helpful for pain and recovery:
- Lying on your front over a pillow (to relieve pressure and help drainage)
- Warming wraps or warm, moist compresses
- Recovery-supporting tea
- Abdominal massage and a stabilising postpartum belt
Important notes on monitoring your lochia
- In the first days, use only pads rather than period underwear — that way you can keep a good eye on the amount, colour and clots.
- Coagula (blood clots) are normal, as long as they aren't constant or very large.
- Your midwife will regularly check your uterus is recovering by palpation and by asking how you feel.
Important: Lochia stopping abruptly in the first week is a warning sign. It can point to a blockage or backup and should be checked with your midwife or gynaecologist straight away.
Tip for a first blockage: Lie on your front several times a day — ideally with a firm pillow under your lower abdomen. This helps get the flow going again and eases afterpains at the same time.
