Childbirth involves a recovery period where the uterus heals and returns to its pre-pregnancy state. This natural process includes uterine bleeding and blood clots. While normal, distinguishing between typical and concerning signs is important for new parents.
Understanding Normal Postpartum Clots
After delivery, the body expels the uterine lining and excess blood through lochia. This discharge combines blood, mucus, and uterine tissue. Initially, lochia is heavy and bright red, often resembling a heavy menstrual period.
During the first few days, small blood clots are common. They are reddish, jelly-like, and typically no larger than a grape, nickel, or golf ball. These clots may be more noticeable after lying down or standing, as blood can pool and clot before expulsion. Over several weeks, lochia gradually changes color from red to pinkish-brown, then to yellowish-white, with clot size and frequency decreasing as healing progresses.
Identifying Concerning Clots and Symptoms
While some clotting is expected, certain characteristics and symptoms can indicate an issue requiring medical attention. Clots larger than a golf ball or lemon are considered abnormal. Passing many large clots consistently, or bleeding that soaks through more than one sanitary pad per hour for several consecutive hours, can signal postpartum hemorrhage. This severe bleeding can occur up to 12 weeks after delivery and requires immediate treatment.
Other concerning symptoms include fever or chills, suggesting infection. A foul-smelling vaginal discharge can also indicate infection. Severe abdominal pain or cramping that does not subside, dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting all indicate significant blood loss. Additionally, swelling, pain, warmth, or redness in one leg could signal a deep vein thrombosis (DVT).
Seeking Medical Advice
If any concerning signs are observed, contact a healthcare provider without delay. For severe symptoms like heavy, gushing bleeding that soaks through more than one pad per hour, fainting, or sudden difficulty breathing, immediate emergency medical attention is necessary. These could indicate a serious complication such as postpartum hemorrhage or a pulmonary embolism, a blood clot that has traveled to the lungs.
For other concerning but less immediately life-threatening symptoms, such as persistent clots larger than a golf ball, fever, or foul-smelling discharge, contact your doctor’s office promptly. Always seek medical advice when in doubt about any postpartum symptoms, as prompt evaluation and treatment can prevent complications and support a healthy recovery. Ongoing communication with healthcare providers is an important part of the postpartum journey.