Is Heavy Bleeding from Vaginitis After Childbirth Normal?

Is it correct to say that vaginal inflammation can cause severe bleeding?

I am currently over four months postpartum.
After each time my husband and I have sexual intercourse, I experience pain when urinating.
Initially, it was mild, but starting a couple of days ago, I noticed thick green discharge, and urination has become painful.
I also have significant soreness in my groin, which worsens when standing.
After two days, I visited the hospital, and the doctor diagnosed me with vaginitis.
I was prescribed a 7-day course of antibiotics and a 3-day vaginal suppository (I am still breastfeeding).
However, after returning home, my symptoms have worsened.
The bleeding has increased to the point where it resembles a menstrual flow.
Currently, I am wearing adult diapers, which have thick green discharge and some blood.
When I urinate, in addition to the pain, there is a lot of bleeding, similar to a menstrual period.
Should I continue using the suppositories, or what else can I do? The bleeding is increasing, and the soreness in my groin is also worsening!

Qingqing, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/04/29

Dr. Chen Zhiyu reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

In response to your concerns, it is recommended that you immediately visit the medical facility where you originally gave birth to confirm your current condition.
If the treatment results are limited, you may request your physician to refer you through the referral system to a hospital with more comprehensive medical resources for further evaluation and treatment.
Thank you for your inquiry, and I wish you health and happiness.

Reply Date: 2021/04/29

More Info

Heavy bleeding from vaginitis after childbirth can be concerning, and it’s important to understand the context and potential implications. Based on your description, it seems you are experiencing a combination of symptoms that include painful urination, greenish discharge, and significant bleeding, which resembles menstrual flow.
Firstly, it is not uncommon for women to experience various forms of vaginal discharge and bleeding after childbirth, especially in the months following delivery. However, the presence of heavy bleeding, especially if it is accompanied by pain and unusual discharge, warrants careful evaluation.
In your case, the green discharge suggests a possible infection, which aligns with the diagnosis of vaginitis. Vaginitis can be caused by various factors, including bacterial infections, yeast infections, or sexually transmitted infections. The fact that you are experiencing pain during urination and significant bleeding could indicate that the infection is affecting the vaginal and possibly the urinary tract, leading to inflammation and increased sensitivity.

The treatment you received, which includes antibiotics and vaginal suppositories, is standard for bacterial vaginitis. However, if you notice that your symptoms are worsening—such as increased bleeding, worsening pain, or if the discharge continues to be abnormal—it is crucial to follow up with your healthcare provider. They may need to reassess your condition, as sometimes the initial treatment may not fully resolve the infection or there may be another underlying issue that needs to be addressed.

Regarding your question about continuing the suppositories, it is generally advisable to follow your doctor's instructions. However, if you are experiencing significant side effects or if your symptoms are worsening, you should contact your healthcare provider immediately. They may recommend stopping the treatment or adjusting your medications based on your current symptoms.

Additionally, postpartum women are at a higher risk for certain complications, including infections and postpartum hemorrhage. If you are soaking through pads or experiencing large clots, this could indicate a more serious issue that requires immediate medical attention.
In summary, while some bleeding and discharge can be normal after childbirth, the severity and nature of your symptoms suggest that you should seek further medical evaluation. It is essential to communicate openly with your healthcare provider about your symptoms, treatment response, and any concerns you may have. Your health and well-being are paramount, and timely intervention can help prevent complications and promote recovery.

Similar Q&A

Is Post-Menstrual Bleeding a Sign of Vaginitis? Understanding Your Symptoms

Recently, about one to two weeks after my menstrual period, I experienced abnormal bleeding. The amount was not as heavy as a menstrual flow; it was just a little, enough to use a panty liner. Since I had experienced this situation occasionally before, I was concerned about poten...

Dr. Lin Manying reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Ms. Jan: Hello, in response to your questions, here are the answers: 1. Vaginitis does not necessarily require the presence of discharge. 2. A pelvic examination is needed to determine the condition; it cannot be answered online. Hualien Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare, ...

Understanding Vaginal Discharge and Bleeding: Causes and Concerns

I previously visited a doctor due to vaginal inflammation, and it seems to have recurred recently. I applied the medication that the doctor prescribed to me the day before yesterday. I'm not sure what the cause is, but since yesterday, I've noticed some vaginal bleeding...

Dr. Li Guanghan reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello: Without an examination, it is really impossible to provide an answer. You are welcome to come for a consultation. Thank you! Hsinchu City Hospital, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology.

Postpartum Bleeding Concerns: Understanding Your Symptoms After Childbirth

Hello, Doctor: I am six months postpartum and had an episiotomy. I had a Pap smear 50 days after giving birth, and since then, I have experienced a few episodes of bleeding. The earlier episodes had a similar volume to the bleeding after the Pap smear and were somewhat painful. R...

Dr. Li Guanghan reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello: If both the Pap smear and the obstetric and gynecological ultrasound examinations are normal, there is no need to worry. Hsinchu City Hospital, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology.

Postpartum Bleeding: Is It Related to Cervical Inflammation or Breastfeeding?

Hello Doctor: I have been experiencing bleeding for about two months after my cesarean section on December 9th. I visited a clinic for examination, took hemostatic medication, and had a Pap smear that showed cervical inflammation. The bleeding stopped for about a month, but it ha...

Dr. Lin Manying reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello: During breastfeeding, most women experience an anovulatory state, which may lead to irregular bleeding. If the bleeding is heavy and lasts for an extended period, please seek medical attention for evaluation. The Hualien Hospital of the Ministry of Health and Welfare cares...