Correct Answer - Option 2 : Bloody with fleshy odor
Explanation:
- Lochia is also called Postpartum Bleeding. It is characterized as vaginal discharge after childbirth which contains blood, mucous, uterine tissues, amniotic fluid, and remnants of the placenta.
- Lochia lasts for about six weeks. Initially, it is heavier and bloody in nature and gradually becomes a whitish or yellowish discharge. Also, lochia smells metallic, stale, or musty. However, a foul-smelling lochia may indicate infection.
Stages and characteristics of Lochia:
1. Lochia Rubra:
- lasts for 1-4 days
- blood is dark and heavy in nature
- consist of clots, decidual fragments
2. Lochia Serosa
- lasts 5-9 days
- brownish pink color
- consist of old blood, leucocytes, and tissue debris
3. Lochia Alba
- white or yellow in color
- lasts for 10-15 days
- consist of mucous, epithelial cells, and old leucocytes.
Complications: lochia retained within the uterus is known as lochiostasis, and may lead to lochiometra i.e. distention of the uterus.
Lochia vs. hemorrhage
- While Postpartum bleeding is normal but postpartum hemorrhage (PPH) is not normal. PPH may be caused due to uterine atony, laceration or retained placenta.
