Bleeding is normal, and it changes
Bleeding called lochia is heaviest the first few days, then fades from red to pink to brown to a creamy color over about 4 to 6 weeks. It can last up to 8 weeks. Use pads, not tampons, while you heal.
Your body after birth
The short version
- Bleeding fades from red to brown over about 4 to 6 weeks. Use pads, not tampons.
- Rest is part of healing. Let the housework wait.
- Soaking a pad an hour, fever, a bad headache, vision changes, chest pain, or one swollen leg: get help now.
A baby was just born, and so was a healing body. Whether you delivered vaginally or by cesarean, recovery takes weeks, not days. Going slowly is exactly what your body needs.
What to know
Rest is part of the treatment
Soreness, cramping when you feed, and tiredness are all expected. Take help when it is offered, keep water and snacks nearby, and let the housework wait.
Your 6-week visit matters
Even if you feel fine, keep your postpartum checkup. It is when your provider makes sure everything is healing and checks in on how you are doing, body and mind.
From the experts
These go straight to the source.When to call someone
Some symptoms need care right away. Call your doctor now, or go to the ER, if you soak more than one pad an hour, pass clots bigger than a golf ball, have a fever, a bad headache that will not go away, changes in your vision, trouble breathing, chest pain, or swelling and pain in one leg. Always mention you gave birth recently. Trust your gut: if something feels wrong, get help.
Help near you
All help near you →National Maternal Mental Health HotlineFree and confidential, 24/7, in English and Spanish. For pregnant and new mothers.
Find a community health centerPrenatal, postpartum, and family care, on a sliding scale by income.
Near Flagstaff, ArizonaHand-checked local listings for Coconino CountyHealing is slow, and slow is how it is meant to go. When you are ready, the help-near-you links can connect you with people nearby. And if your mind has felt heavy too, there is a page for that. For now, rest counts as doing something.