LOCHIA Meaning and
Definition
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Lochia is a medical term used to refer to the postpartum vaginal discharge that occurs after childbirth. It consists of blood, mucus, and uterine tissue that is shed from the lining of the uterus during the healing process. Typically, the discharge begins immediately after delivery and lasts for a few weeks.
Lochia is a natural and necessary process that allows the body to recover and return to its pre-pregnancy state. During pregnancy, the lining of the uterus becomes thickened to support the growing fetus. Once the baby is born, the body no longer needs this thickened lining, leading to its shedding through the vagina.
There are three stages of lochia, known as lochia rubra, lochia serosa, and lochia alba. Lochia rubra is the initial stage and is characterized by bright red bleeding associated with blood and tissue remnants. As the healing progresses, the discharge transitions to lochia serosa, which appears pinkish or brownish and contains less blood, mainly consisting of mucus. Finally, lochia alba signifies the final stage, where the discharge becomes creamy or whitish in color and consists mainly of mucus and white blood cells.
It is essential to monitor the character, color, and odor of lochia as heavy bleeding, foul-smelling discharge, or prolonged duration may indicate infection or other complications. Healthcare professionals often suggest using sanitary pads as tampons should be avoided to reduce the risk of infection. Overall, lochia is a normal part of the postpartum period and gradually decreases until it eventually ceases as the uterus fully heals.
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The discharge from the vagina of mucus, blood, and tissue debris, following child birth.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
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In med., the discharge that flows from the uterus and vagina after child-birth while the mucous membrane is returning to its former condition.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for LOCHIA
- pochia
- lichia
- lkchia
- llchia
- lpchia
- l0chia
- l9chia
- loxhia
- lovhia
- lofhia
- lodhia
- locgia
- locbia
- locnia
- locjia
- locuia
- locyia
- lochua
- lochja
- lobhia
Etymology of LOCHIA
The word lochia is derived from the Ancient Greek word lokhia, which refers to the discharge of the uterus following childbirth. Lokhia is derived from the Greek word lokhein, meaning to bring forth or bear.
Similar spelling words for LOCHIA
- loucks,
- loach,
- loki,
- loza,
- loxia,
- lohse,
- loch,
- loesch,
- Loeza,
- lough,
- loggia,
- Loyce,
- louche,
- loasa.
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