Bleeding After A C-Section

There is always some bleeding after a C-Section. It's referred to as the post-natal discharge or Lochia bleeding.

This is the old blood left over from the delivery, and it originates from where the placenta was attached to the uterine wall.  Every woman experiences this after having a baby, regardless of having a c-section or vaginal birth.

But How Much Bleeding after a C-Section is considered normal?

At first you will experience bright red bleeding that should taper off to a pinkish color, then a brownish-yellow until it stops.

If you notice that you are passing small blood clots don't be alarmed, this is often normal. If the clots are larger than a golf ball, this is not normal and you should contact your doctor immediately.

Your blood flow is always heavier immediately after your c-section procedure and will continue for about the first 4-5 days, but it should get progressively lighter after about 10-12 days,  but note it could also last up to 6 weeks.

Typically the range of bleeding is about 3-4 weeks. Your main concern will be if you experience large clots or uncontrollable, heavy bleeding.

If there are days where you have little to no bleeding but then start bleeding heavier again, this is generally an indication that you are doing too much or over-exerting yourself and is a clear sign that you need to stop what you are doing and take it easy for a few days or possibly a week.

Bleeding after Your C-Section that is NOT Normal

If you experience uncontrollable, heavy bleeding which could be categorized as soaking a towel in the span of about an hour or you completely soak several pads within a few hours, then call your doctor immediately.

Damage to major blood vessels can be a serious complication and heavy bleeding could be an indication of that type of problem. More times than not, it just means you've been doing too much but there is the rare case when there may be a problem.

A call to your doctor and a simple checkup will determine what the problem is, however any heavy  bleeding that concerns you is a good reason to call your doctor. 

Don't use tampons while you are bleeding during this time. During your c-section recovery you are at risk of internal infections and tampons can harbor bacteria which can lead to an infection while healing so avoid using them until your body has completely healed.

Whether you will need treatment depends on why you are bleeding and how serious it might be and treatment could vary from something as simple as administering a drug to get contractions going or it could be as serious as a blood transfusion or even a hysterectomy.

It's difficult to know what treatment is needed, that is why uncontrollable, heavy bleeding after a C-Section means you should contact your doctor right away.

Getting your periods and Menstrual Cycle back

After your body has healed from the surgery and all the bleeding has stopped, you may be wondering when you'll begin your next period again. This can take anywhere from 45 days to 3 months.

If you are breastfeeding it will take longer. Breastfeeding can slow down the production of some hormones causing a delay of your period for 12 weeks or maybe more.

Also beware that a woman can still ovulate during this time of no bleeding, so keep that in mind if getting pregnant again is a concern.

For Lots More Help, Tips and Personal Advice with making critical decisions regarding your C-Section, Planing, avoiding pain/risks and Recovering quickly including getting your life & your shape back, please visit our C-Section blog.