lochia
Pronunciation: LOH-kee-ah
Vaginal discharge containing blood, mucus, and tissue that occurs after childbirth.
Full Definition
The vaginal discharge that occurs after childbirth, consisting of blood, mucus, and uterine tissue as the uterus sheds its pregnancy lining and returns to its normal size. Lochia progresses through three stages: lochia rubra (bright red, days 1-3), lochia serosa (pink or brown, days 4-10), and lochia alba (white or yellow, up to 6 weeks). Normal lochia has a characteristic odor but should not be foul-smelling, which could indicate infection. Heavy bleeding or prolonged bright red discharge may signal complications requiring medical attention.
Usage
Usage note: Latin plural form; singular is 'lochium' but rarely used. Types are specified as lochia rubra, serosa, or alba.
In Context
- "Normal lochia rubra was observed in the immediate postpartum period." — Postpartum nursing note
- "Patient reports foul-smelling lochia, concerning for endometritis." — Postpartum follow-up visit