Patient's question:
Hello, I am 26 days postpartum today. Now the lochia is almost white, but I've noticed it has a bad odor. During this time, I have been showering and have not had sexual intercourse. Why could there be an odor? Will it be an infection of a gynecological disease? Will this affect breastfeeding?Doctor's answer:
Hello, the secretions discharged from the vagina after childbirth are called lochia, and they generally take about 4 weeks to recover. Normal lochia has a bloody odor but is not foul. The duration of lochia for cesarean section mothers is slightly longer than for vaginal delivery. By observing lochia, paying attention to changes in its quality, quantity, color, and odor, as well as the condition of uterine involution, one can determine whether the uterine recovery is normal. Occasional minor bleeding is normal, likely due to incomplete discharge of vaginal secretions. If an odor or other symptoms appear, it may indicate the presence of inflammation. It is recommended that you consult a hospital for examination and symptomatic treatment if necessary. Traditional Chinese medicine has long studied the condition of lochia not ceasing after childbirth. The treatment for this condition should primarily focus on replenishing deficiency and removing blood stasis. Replenishing deficiency mainly involves nourishing qi and blood, while removing blood stasis should be combined with qi-regulating herbs, based on the principle that "qi flows, blood flows."