QuestionA;right i just had a baby on 12/4/07 and i was woundering a few thing here. #1 how long before me and my baby go outside?#2 how long do you bleed after givng birth?I Had to get double stiches down there.#3 Also will my period be or sould say start on the 4th oh each month?
AnswerDear Sherry,
OK - I'll take your questions in order.
First, you and your baby can go out whenever you feel up to it. Obviously, you want to minimize exposure to all of the viral illnesses going around this time of year, but that does not mean you have to be a hermit. As long as you and your baby are dressed appropriate for the weather and you take all safety precautions (car seat, etc,..), you can go whenever you feel comfortable doing so unless your doctor has advised you otherwise for you or your baby.
Second, the bleeding after delivery is called lochia. Postpartum bleeding is similar to the bleeding that occurs during a menstrual period, but is often much heavier than menstrual bleeding for the first few days. Postpartum bleeding typically begins within hours after giving birth, and will continue for about 2-3 weeks. For some women, postpartum bleeding may last for up to as many as 6 weeks after giving birth.
Postpartum bleeding starts out bright red (lochia rubra). The postpartum bleeding generally stays bright red for anywhere from 3-7 days after giving birth. After that time, the color will become more pinkish, and eventually becomes an off-white or yellow-white color (lochia alba). Occasionally, postpartum bleeding may contain small blood clots, which is normal and nothing to panic about.
Third, your first period after childbirth is dependent upon whether you are breastfeeding or not. Women who are not breastfeeding will usually start menstruating 6-8 weeks postpartum. If you are breastfeeding, you may not menstruate until you wean the baby off the breast. Other women get their period back even though they continue to breastfeed. Every woman/every pregnancy is different. Your first period after childbirth is often much heavier and lasts a little longer than usual before returning to a more normal pattern.
However, you should know that once you do return to sexual activity, you should not consider yourself protected from pregnancy simply because you have not yet had a period. You can actually ovulate before you have your first period. If you do not wish to become pregnant right away again, you should make sure that any sexual activity (once cleared by your doctor) is protected.
I hope this has helped you and answered your questions. I wish you well and a Merry Christmas.
Brenda
