Distinguishing Normal vs Abnormal Postpartum Bleeding | HolistCode TCM Guide

After each void/bowel movement, examine pad for: Color (bright→pink→brown), Clot size (<quarter normal; >golf-ball abnormal), Soaking rate (1 pad/hour max after first 48h)

Track total soaked pads: ≤6/day in first week (heaviest first 3 days), ≤1-2/day by week 3. Sudden increase or large clots (ping-pong ball size) require action

Stop activity if: Bleeding soaks >1 pad/hour for 2h, Clots >quarter size, Foul odor, Fever, Dizziness, or Abdominal hardness/pain

If no fever and provider cleared you, place a warm (not hot) water bottle on lower abdomen for 10 min to gently promote uterine contraction via heat therapy

If mild abnormalities persist after 24h of monitoring, book a virtual TCM consult for pulse/tongue evaluation to rule out blood stasis or cold