Gross question (sorry) - post partum bleeding

[teaping]

I’m really sorry for the gross question but just not sure what’s normal.

I gave birth Thursday night and in the last 24 hours the bleeding has changed much lighter in colour from dark / bright red to more of an orangey colour, sometimes even looking slightly yellow. Is this normal? I will ask the midwife when I see her tomorrow but am a bit worried.

I had a second degree tear and accompanying stitches so just slightly concerned about infection. I’m very very sore!

Congratulations!

Can't comment on the bleeding, but maybe take photos to show midwife? Also, can you check your temperature? If it's raised, then seek advice.

It's still very early days for you - I found lying down as much as possible and to get fresh air into the affected area was really helpful to promote healing. Also, if you can manage a short bath (not too long as affects stitches) then that might feel nice too, and help to keep the area clean. I sat on a feeding cushion to keep pressure off as it was too bloody painful to do much else - it does get better! Codeine also made a very positive difference - much recommended.

So long as it doesn’t smell and you’re well no temperature it should be ok I would tell midwife tho just in case.

I was told not to sit on a cushion as it hinders healing. Try and lie down a lot take warn baths with salt to aid healing put witch hazel on pads also helps keep the witch hazel in fridge it’s really soothing.

And congratulations on your baby.

Have a Google of 'lochia' and see if that helps. It's probably all normal but make sure you look out for other signs of infection like smell and temperature too. Take regular consistent painkillers, pour a jug of warm water while you wee, hold your perineum with a folded flannel when you poo and have baths with a bit of salt in. I also had some gel pads with covers that you could put in your pants! And spending time airing your bits is meant to be good for healing too. Sorry, post birth is a sore, tiring and tricky time but it does get better :)

Orange and yellow is normal, as is going back to red for a while (especially if you over do activity). An unpleasant smell or green colour is a sign of possible infection.

Congratulations on your baby

Thanks so much ladies, I feel a lot better having read your comments. I’ve no temperature and there’s no smell or anything so it sounds like it’s just normal - phew. I will check with my lovely midwife tomorrow though.

Thank you also for the other tips - all of which are noted! I haven’t been for a number 2 yet and I’m dreading it!!!! I’ve taken some fibrogel to try and make it easier but the thought of going makes my toes curl!

It's normal for it to change to a much lighter colour and reduce in quantities, as long as the smell doesn't change to very offensive and you don't develop fever you should be ok.
If you are breastfeeding or do something more energetic (such as go for a walk) don't worry if it increases again and goes back to bright red.