Can pumping make postpartum bleeding worse?

Understanding Postpartum Bleeding and the Impact of Pumping
Postpartum bleeding, also known as lochia, is a common experience for new mothers following childbirth. It typically involves a discharge of blood, mucus, and uterine tissue as the body begins to heal. While some bleeding is normal, concerns often arise regarding factors that may exacerbate this condition, particularly the act of pumping breast milk.
The Nature of Postpartum Bleeding
Postpartum bleeding can vary significantly in volume and duration among women. Initially, the bleeding is usually heavy and bright red, tapering off to a lighter flow over several weeks. Most women can expect this bleeding to last anywhere from a few days to up to six weeks, with the intensity gradually decreasing. However, in some cases, women may experience postpartum hemorrhage (PPH), which is defined as excessive bleeding that can occur within hours of delivery and may pose serious health risks if not addressed promptly.
Does Pumping Affect Postpartum Bleeding?
The relationship between pumping and postpartum bleeding is not straightforward. Pumping itself does not directly cause an increase in bleeding; however, it can influence uterine contractions. When a mother pumps breast milk, the stimulation of the nipples can trigger the release of oxytocin, a hormone that promotes uterine contractions. These contractions are essential for helping the uterus return to its pre-pregnancy size and can actually aid in reducing bleeding.
However, there are nuances to consider. If a mother is experiencing heavy bleeding or has recently had a significant amount of blood loss, the act of pumping might lead to increased uterine activity, which could potentially exacerbate bleeding in some cases. This is particularly true if the uterus is not contracting effectively or if there are underlying complications such as retained placental fragments.
When to Seek Medical Attention
It is crucial for new mothers to monitor their postpartum bleeding closely. Signs that warrant immediate medical attention include soaking through a pad in an hour or less, passing large clots, or experiencing a sudden increase in bleeding after it has started to decrease. If a mother notices these symptoms while pumping, it is advisable to consult a healthcare provider to rule out any serious issues.
In summary, while pumping can stimulate uterine contractions that may help reduce postpartum bleeding, it is essential for mothers to be vigilant about their bleeding patterns. If there are any concerns about the volume or nature of postpartum bleeding, especially in conjunction with pumping, seeking medical advice is always the best course of action.

Can engorgement cause bleeding?

Vascular engorgement
This results from an increase in blood flow to the breasts shortly after giving birth. Your first milk or colostrum may have a rusty, orange, or pinkish color. There is no specific treatment for vascular engorgement. The bleeding usually disappears within a week of giving birth.

Does being active make you bleed more postpartum?

If your postnatal bleeding (lochia) gets heavier or changes colour (becomes pink or red) after activity, you could be overdoing it. You’re also likely to feel very tired. Listen to your body. Pace yourself and make sure you get plenty of rest too.

Why is my lochia turning red again?

If bright red spotting reappears after your lochia has already lightened up, it could be something called eschar bleeding. This is caused when the scab left behind from your placenta dissolves. This happens around the 10-day mark postpartum, and should only last for a few hours.

What are the signs of a retained placenta?

Symptoms of a retained placenta include:

• fever.
• heavy bleeding.
• bad-smelling discharge from your vagina.
• many large clots coming out of the vagina.

What is the number #1 risk factor for postpartum hemorrhage?

If the uterus does not contract strongly enough, called uterine atony, these blood vessels bleed freely and hemorrhage occurs. This is the most common cause of postpartum hemorrhage.

What makes postpartum bleeding worse?

If the contractions are not strong enough, the vessels bleed more. It can also happen if small pieces of the placenta stay attached.

Does pumping increase postpartum bleeding?

Bleeding is redder and heavier just after breastfeeding or expressing milk, as breastfeeding makes the womb contract . However, the overall amount of blood will be the same if breastfeeding or not.

How many ounces is considered oversupply?

4-5 oz
An oversupply of breast milk generally refers to a mother who is able to nurse her infant, or multiples, and is still able to produce a significant amount of breast milk (more than 4-5 oz) in a pump session after a feeding.

Can pumping too hard cause bleeding?

Another common cause of blood in breast milk is due to broken capillaries. This is usually caused by the incorrect use of a breast pump, where the suction is too strong and causes damage to the blood vessels. This trauma isn’t considered normal and should be addressed to reduce the risk of ongoing issues.

When does postpartum bleeding peak?

Often, women experience an increase in the amount of bleeding at 7-14 days secondary to the sloughing of the eschar on the placental site. This is the classic time for delayed postpartum hemorrhages to occur.