NCC Maternal Newborn Nursing Practice Exam 2026 - Free Maternal Newborn Nursing Practice Questions and Study Guide

The three stages of lochia postpartum are indeed lochia rubra, lochia serosa, and lochia alba. Lochia rubra is the first stage, occurring during the first few days after delivery, characterized by bright red blood that consists of blood, decidual tissue, and mucus. This stage typically lasts for about three to four days and is an indicator of the initial healing process following childbirth.

Following lochia rubra, lochia serosa emerges around day four or five after delivery, lasting from about a week to ten days. This stage is marked by a transition to pink or brownish discharge as the blood content decreases and the discharge contains more serous fluid and leukocytes, reflecting the body’s healing phase.

Finally, lochia alba represents the last stage of lochia, usually occurring from approximately ten days to six weeks postpartum. This discharge is yellowish-white in color, composed mostly of white blood cells, epithelium, and mucus. The presence of this stage indicates that the healing of the uterine lining is progressing well.

Recognizing these three stages of lochia is crucial for assessing postpartum recovery and identifying any potential complications, such as infection or retained placental fragments, that may arise if the expected progression through these