What causes persistent light bleeding after childbirth?

Nov 11, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Zhang Lu

Introduction

In general, persistent light vaginal bleeding after childbirth may be related to lochia discharge, resumption of menstruation, uterine atony, soft birth canal injury, or intrauterine infection. It is recommended that patients promptly visit a hospital for evaluation and receive symptomatic treatment under the guidance of a physician. During the recovery period, it is important to replenish nutrients timely and consume nutritious foods such as eggs and pork ribs appropriately.

Under normal circumstances, persistent light vaginal bleeding after childbirth may be related to lochia discharge, resumption of menstruation, uterine atony, soft birth canal injury, or intrauterine infection. It is recommended that patients promptly visit a hospital for evaluation and receive symptomatic treatment under medical guidance. Specific causes are analyzed as follows:

1. Lochia discharge: After delivery, the endometrial lining sheds and may be expelled through the vagina along with blood and necrotic endometrial tissue—this is known as lochia. No special treatment is required; maintaining external genital hygiene and preventing infection are sufficient.

2. Resumption of menstruation: As ovarian function gradually recovers postpartum, cyclical hormone secretion resumes, which may lead to menstrual bleeding. Usually no specific treatment is needed. Attention should be paid to staying warm, maintaining good nutrition, and avoiding strenuous exercise.

3. Uterine atony: Poor uterine contraction after childbirth can lead to blood accumulation within the uterus, causing slight bleeding, possibly accompanied by mild abdominal pain or bloating. Bleeding may last longer than normal. Patients should follow medical advice to take medications such as Yimucao Granules or Xinshenghua Granules.

4. Soft birth canal injury: During delivery, the perineum, vagina, and other soft tissues of the birth canal may become injured, leading to bleeding that is often bright red in color and accompanied by pain and swelling. Prompt suturing and hemostasis are necessary. Additionally, patients should use antibiotics such as Cefuroxime Axetil Tablets, Cefixime Granules, or Levofloxacin Hydrochloride Tablets as directed by a physician to prevent infection.

5. Intrauterine infection: Poor hygiene after childbirth may allow bacteria to enter the uterine cavity, causing infection and resulting in recurrent light bleeding. Patients should promptly follow medical instructions to take medications such as Metronidazole Tablets, Amoxicillin Capsules, or Levofloxacin Hydrochloride Capsules for treatment.

During the recovery period, it's important to replenish nutrients timely. Consuming nutritious foods such as eggs and pork ribs appropriately can support physical recovery.

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How to replenish qi and blood after childbirth

Postpartum replenishment of qi and blood should follow the principles of gentle nourishment and spleen-strengthening for blood production, avoiding excessive or blind tonification. Specific methods mainly include dietary therapy, herbal regulation, proper rest and care, emotional balance, and moderate physical activity. During the process of replenishing qi and blood, contraindications and precautions should also be observed—avoid raw, cold, spicy, and irritating foods, and adjust the pace of tonification according to individual recovery progress.

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How long does sweating last after childbirth?

Excessive sweating after childbirth gradually improves within 1 to 2 weeks. Postpartum sweating is a normal physiological phenomenon, as the excess fluid accumulated in the body during pregnancy needs to be eliminated through sweat. Combined with hormonal changes and metabolic adjustments after delivery, sweating becomes significantly increased, especially at night and after physical activity. Generally, it resolves on its own as the body recovers over the course of 1 to 2 weeks.

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Can I eat Codonopsis (Dangshen) after childbirth?

In general, it is acceptable to consume Codonopsis (Dangshen) after childbirth, but medical advice should be followed. When using it, moderation is key—typically 3 to 5 grams of dried, sliced herb per serving, which can be used in soups, porridge, or steeped in water. During the early postpartum period, digestive function is relatively weak; therefore, it is advisable to start with a small amount and observe the body's response. If no discomfort occurs, the dosage may gradually be increased. However, if there are clear signs of internal heat (excessive "fire") after childbirth,

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How long does it take to recover from excessive sweating after childbirth?

Postpartum night sweats are part of the physiological adjustment process. Excess fluid stored in the body during pregnancy is eliminated through sweat, and hormonal fluctuations further contribute to increased perspiration, especially noticeable at night and after physical activity. Most women recover well, with fluid metabolism stabilizing within 2–4 weeks and sweating gradually decreasing to normal levels.