Are you experiencing bright red bleeding 6 weeks postpartum and wonder if this is normal or not?
Don’t worry! Bleeding 6 weeks after birth can be caused by your placenta site’s scab coming off. It could even simply be your period.
However, it can also be a cause for concern if the bleeding is accompanied by other symptoms.
Let’s take a deeper look at why you are still bleeding six weeks later and what you should do.
What Causes Bleeding 6 Weeks Postpartum?
Following childbirth, the uterus expels any excess blood and tissue that it no longer requires.
It also goes back to its original size after changing its lining.
Postpartum bleeding is a typical side effect of this process, and it can persist for up to six weeks.
Each woman’s pregnancy can be different, and so can their blood flow and color.
However, if the flow is really heavy or accompanied by discomfort or other symptoms, you should seek immediate medical attention.
Is Bright Red Blood 6 Weeks Postpartum Normal?
When you have a baby, you may have some bleeding for several weeks, up to six weeks after birth.
It is also possible that the bleeding will be inconsistent and subside before turning dark red again.
In the postpartum period, the uterus undergoes a change.
An unexpected surge of bright red blood may occur several weeks after your bleeding appears to have ceased.
Usually, this indicates that the scab on the placental site is coming off.
In that case, the bright red bleeding will subside within a few days.
However, call your doctor if you are bleeding more than one pad an hour for more than three hours.
How Long Should Postpartum Bleeding Be Bright Red?
Rubra, the initial stage of postpartum bleeding, can last up to four days after delivery.
In the first few days following the birth of a child, postpartum bleeding is at its most intense.
The blood will have a bright or dark red color and the flow may be quite heavy.
Clots in your lochia are very common at this stage.
Lochia rubra is then followed by lochia serosa and lochia alba
As previously indicated, the bright red blood may return weeks later as the placenta site scab falls off.
Is It Normal For Lochia To Turn Red Again?
Yes, the remnants of a scab from the placenta site might cause lochia to become red again a few weeks after birth.
How Do You Know If It’s Your Period Or Postpartum Bleeding?
Lochia is generally not bright red after the first few days after giving birth. It tends to be lighter in color and can be white or quite watery.
However, the placenta site scab may fall off six or more weeks after delivery, resulting in bright red blood.
Although, bright red bleeding 6 weeks postpartum is more likely to be your menstrual cycle.
Pregnancy-related bleeding can also develop as a result of excessive exercise or strain.
For peace of mind, make an appointment with your doctor if you notice bright red bleeding 6 weeks postpartum.
When To See A Doctor About Bright Red Bleeding 6 Weeks Postpartum
Speaking to your doctor is always better than having doubts that could exacerbate your concerns.
However, there are symptoms you should particularly pay attention to as they will require immediate medical attention.
Watch out for the following if you are experiencing bright red bleeding 6 weeks postpartum:
- Blood clots bigger than a plum
- Blurred vision
- Chills
- Bleeding that soaks more than one sanitary pad an hour and doesn’t slow down or stop
- Rapid heartbeat
- Clammy skin
- Weakness
- Dizziness
- Faint feeling
- Nausea
Conclusion
Although bright red bleeding 6 weeks postpartum is OK, you should be aware of any accompanying symptoms that could signal that anything is amiss.
Whether your bleeding is due to the placenta site scab coming off or your period, be sure to tell your doctor and follow their advice.
