Blood in urine after childbirth

Blood in urine after childbirth: Possible causes

The appearance of blood in urine (hematuria) after childbirth is always a reason to see a doctor. Although sometimes the causes can be relatively simple, this symptom may indicate an infection or injury that requires treatment. It is important not to self-diagnose, but to obtain professional consultation.

How to distinguish from lochia?

In the first days and weeks after childbirth you will have bloody vaginal discharge — lochia. Sometimes it is difficult to determine where the blood is coming from. If you suspect that the blood is actually in the urine (for example, the urine has a pink or reddish color), you should inform your doctor.

Most common causes

• Urinary tract infection (UTI). This is the most common cause. Inflammation of the bladder wall (cystitis) or urethra can lead to blood appearing. It is usually accompanied by pain, burning, and frequent urges to urinate.
• Trauma during childbirth. The passage of the baby through the birth canal or the placement of a urinary catheter can cause micro‑injuries to the urethra, leading to a temporary appearance of a small amount of blood.
• Kidney stones. Although this occurs less often, the presence of stones in the kidneys or bladder can cause blood in the urine.

Your doctor will most likely order a urine analysis to determine the exact cause and, if necessary, prescribe treatment compatible with breastfeeding. The recovery process requires careful attention to any warning signs.