Which of the following describes the lochia color on day 4-9 postpartum?

During the postpartum period, lochia refers to the vaginal discharge that occurs as the uterus heals and returns to its non-pregnant state. The color and characteristics of lochia change over time.

From day 4 to day 9 postpartum, the discharge is typically serosa, which is characterized by a pink or brown hue. This color change occurs as the body begins to expel the remnants of the placental site and shed blood and tissue, reducing in amount and transitioning from the initially more sanguineous lochia rubra experienced in the early postpartum phase.

Lochia serosa consists of a mix of blood, leukocytes, and tissues, which gives it the lighter pigmentation and odor described. It signals that the uterus is healing properly, as the transition from rubra to serosa indicates progressing recovery.

In contrast, lochia rubra is present in the first few days postpartum and is bloody in nature, while lochia alba follows serosa and is typically yellow or white, indicating a further stage of healing beyond day 9 postpartum. Clara, being clear and odorless, does not typically represent any stage of postpartum discharge and is not a typical descriptor during this period. Understanding these stages is crucial for monitoring postpartum recovery and identifying any