lochia
Pronunciation: LOH-kee-ah
Vaginal discharge containing blood, mucus, and uterine tissue following childbirth.
Full Definition
Lochia is the normal postpartum vaginal discharge that occurs as the uterus returns to its pre-pregnancy state. It progresses through three stages: lochia rubra (red, first few days), lochia serosa (pinkish-brown, days 4-10), and lochia alba (yellowish-white, up to 6 weeks). This natural process is essential for uterine healing and is carefully monitored for abnormal characteristics that might indicate complications such as infection or retained placental fragments. Medical editors should be familiar with this term as it appears frequently in postpartum care documentation.
Usage
Usage note: Always singular form. Types include lochia rubra, serosa, and alba - ensure proper classification in documentation.
In Context
- "The patient reported heavy lochia with large clots on postpartum day three." — Postpartum follow-up note
- "Normal lochia progression from rubra to alba was observed during the six-week recovery period." — Research study documentation