Is it normal to bleed after an episiotomy

Sometimes women notice some stitch material coming away soon after they have had their baby, or can see for themselves that the wound has opened.

If you are concerned there is a problem with your stitches you should see a healthcare professional. They will examine your stitches and look for signs of infection. If the infection is making you unwell, you may require admission to hospital for intravenous antibiotics. If there is an infection the wound will not be re-stitched. This is because it can trap infection inside, and infected tissues may not stitch back together well.

If there is no infection, or the infection has been treated, the wound may be re-stitched in theatre. This process varies in women and depends on where the wound is, how deep the gap was, and how long any infection was present. Usually, when the healing process is complete, there will be a red scar for a short while. The exposed blood cells trickle into the uterus, which are then discharged along with some of the placental tissue.

Episiotomies and perineal tears can also bleed following delivery if they are not fully stitched-up yet. Rest, as always, cannot hurt. You should also avoid using tampons for about six or seven weeks, so sanitary pads would be helpful in dealing with the mess. Although abnormally heavy bleeding can indicate a more serious complication like a hemorrhage, it generally gets progressively lighter before resolving itself on its own. You should, however, call your healthcare provider if the bleeding is so heavy that it can soak a pad in under an hour over a two to three hour span, if accompanied by a fever, or if the discharge is abnormal.

Essential cookies always enabled These need to be enabled to ensure the website works properly. Don't be concerned if you pass occasional blood clots, as long as they are smaller than a golf ball. Author: Healthwise Staff. This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Learn how we develop our content.

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