lochia
Pronunciation: LOH-kee-uh
Normal vaginal discharge containing blood, mucus, and tissue that occurs after childbirth for several weeks.
Full Definition
Lochia is the physiological vaginal discharge that occurs following childbirth as the uterus returns to its pre-pregnancy state. This discharge consists of blood, mucus, decidual tissue, and other debris from the healing placental site. Lochia typically progresses through three stages: lochia rubra (bright red, days 1-4), lochia serosa (pinkish-brown, days 4-10), and lochia alba (yellowish-white, lasting up to 6 weeks postpartum). Changes in the normal pattern, such as heavy bleeding, foul odor, or return to bright red color after it has lightened, may indicate complications requiring medical evaluation.
Usage
Usage note: Latin term, plural is also 'lochia.' The three types (rubra, serosa, alba) follow a predictable timeline.
In Context
- "The patient reports normal progression from lochia rubra to lochia serosa." — Postpartum follow-up visit
- "Persistent bright red lochia at two weeks postpartum warranted further evaluation." — Postpartum complication assessment