lochia

[loh-kee-uh, lok-ee-uh]

noun

Medicine/Medical.

plural

lochia 

1. the liquid discharge from the uterus after childbirth.

lochia

/ ˈlɒkɪə /

noun

1. a vaginal discharge of cellular debris, mucus, and blood following childbirth

Other Word Forms

• lochial adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of lochia¹

1675–85; < New Latin < Greek, noun use of neuter plural of lóchios of childbirth, equivalent to lóch ( os ) childbirth (akin to léchesthai to lie down; lie ² ) + -ios adj. suffix

Word History and Origins

Origin of lochia¹

C17: New Latin from Greek lokhia, from lokhios, from lokhos childbirth

Example Sentences

Sometimes, ​lochia –​ or the post-birth discharge that contains blood, mucus and uterine tissue – lasts up to six weeks after delivery, but it tends to lighten up over time.

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In rare instances auto-infection may result from spontaneous decomposition of the lochia, of bits of decidua, of coagula of blood, of necrosed tissue, or in consequence of severe instrumental labors.

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If consequent on parturition the lochia cease or become offensive.

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The lochia were discharged regularly; and in three weeks, she was able to sit up, and in three more, quite well.

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In other cases the lochia continues too long, or in too great quantity, owing to the deficiency of venous absorption.

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