What type of lochia begins around day 4 and changes from red to pink and then to pinkish-brown with a thin density?

• A. Lochia rubra
• B. Lochia serosa
• C. Lochia alba
• D. Lochia sanguine

Answer: (B)

The type of lochia that begins around day four postpartum and transitions from red to pink and then to pinkish-brown with a thinner consistency is known as lochia serosa. This stage of lochia typically occurs from about days 4 to 10 after delivery, indicating the body is in the healing process following childbirth.

Lochia serosa is characterized by its lighter color compared to lochia rubra, which is the discharge present during the first few days postpartum and is bright red due to the presence of blood. As the healing progresses, the lochia transitions to the serous stage, which contains fewer red blood cells, more leukocytes, and serous fluid.

This gradual change in color and consistency reflects the gradual decrease of blood and the healing of the uterine lining, moving toward the final stage of lochia, known as lochia alba, which is typically yellowish-white and occurs later in the postpartum period.