What characterizes lochia rubra?

Lochia rubra is characterized as a red discharge that occurs during the postpartum period, primarily made up of blood, placental debris, and other bodily fluids. This marks the first stage of the lochia sequence, which occurs from delivery up to about three to four days postpartum. The color red indicates the presence of fresh blood, which is typical immediately following childbirth as the uterus begins to shed its lining and any remaining placental tissue.

Understanding this characteristic is crucial for monitoring normal postpartum recovery and identifies potential complications such as excessive bleeding or infection, which may manifest through changes in color, consistency, and volume of the discharge.