What might scant or absent lochia indicate?

Scant or absent lochia can be a significant finding following childbirth. Lochia refers to the vaginal discharge that occurs after delivery as the uterus sheds its lining. It is typically red or brown in color in the initial days after birth and gradually changes in color and amount over time.

When lochia is scant or absent, one of the most concerning possibilities is the presence of retained placental fragments. This condition occurs when portions of the placenta remain in the uterus after delivery, which can hinder the normal healing process and decrease the amount of discharge. Retained placental fragments can lead to complications such as infection or postpartum hemorrhage, making it crucial for healthcare providers to recognize this sign and evaluate the patient accordingly.

Normal recovery would typically involve some degree of lochia for a specified duration, while scant or absent lochia deviates from what is expected. Similarly, an infection could potentially lead to abnormal signs, but it more frequently presents with fever, malodorous discharge, or abdominal pain, rather than simply the amount of lochia. Excessive flow, on the other hand, would indicate a different set of issues, such as hemorrhage, which is not indicated by scant or absent lochia. Therefore, identifying scant or absent lochia as a sign