Having a baby is exciting, but it also has its share of hardships. In the first few days, a newborn’s growth is so rapid that it may be difficult to distinguish between “normal development” and alterations that indicate a more severe condition. Newborn vaginal bleeding is one such condition that can be both confusing and scary for parents.
A lot of parents believe that bleeding isn’t normal. However, vaginal bleeding in a newborn is typical. A glance into infant vaginal bleeding and “mini-puberty” can help you better prepare for your child’s future development.
In This Article
- Is Bloody Discharge Normal For Newborns?
- What Are the Causes of Newborn Vaginal Bleeding?
- How to Clean a Baby’s Vagina?
- When Should You Consider Consulting a Doctor?
- FAQ’s
Is Bloody Discharge Normal For Newborns?
The mother’s body produces high quantities of progesterone and estrogen during pregnancy. These get to the infant after crossing the placenta. This is entirely natural and does not pose a threat to your health. It is, in fact, true that certain hormones are essential for the development of the infant. After birth, the newborn no longer receives this constant infusion of hormones.
In the last stages of pregnancy, prolactin and oxytocin levels in a mother’s breasts rise, which encourages breastmilk production. The nipples of both male and female babies might become enlarged due to being exposed to these hormones when in the womb. For a few weeks, you may notice a tiny amount of breast milk leaking from a newborn’s nipples, regardless of gender.
You’re bound to worry the first time you see blood oozing from your baby’s vagina. However, it is usual for newborn baby females to have vaginal bleeding. Most newborn baby girls begin menstruating in the first two or three days following birth. Remember that your kid has been exposed to many hormones while in the womb. That vaginal bleeding is only an indication of her body’s reproductive hormonal withdrawal after leaving the womb. Her own body must flush out those reproductive chemicals you handed on to her during pseudo menstruation.
What Are the Causes of Newborn Vaginal Bleeding?
Several different things may cause vaginal bleeding in newborns.
- A diaper rash that results in a wound on the body.
- Her genitals may bleed if she inserts anything strange into them.
- Bleeding may occur as a result of poor hygiene in the environment.
Vaginal bleeding in newborns might be a sign of something more serious. Here are some possible causes of neonatal vaginal hemorrhage.
Rare Causes of Vaginal Bleeding in Newborns
Inflammation of the vulva and vaginal tissues is known as vulvovaginitis. Several different circumstances may bring it on. Inflammation in newborns may be caused by various factors, including skin illnesses like yeast diaper rash, prolonged exposure to dirty diapers, or even the adverse effects of skincare products. When a baby is inflamed, they may scratch the area often, which may produce bleeding or bloodstains. Other probable signs of a vaginal infection include yellow or brown discharge, fever, and discomfort.
[Read : Yeast Diaper Rash in Babies]
How to Clean a Baby’s Vagina?
If you observe any bleeding from your baby’s vagina, don’t panic.
- The vaginal region may be easily cleaned by widening the labia and washing the wrinkles gently with a cloth.
- To prevent vaginal infections, use lukewarm water and work from the front to the rear.
- A baby’s vaginal discharge does not need any extra care. You need to use warm water and a soft piece of cloth or a cotton ball to gently clean the affected region. The diaper will absorb any remaining moisture, and it is not dangerous.
- To avoid damaging your baby’s delicate genital region, use a soft touch.
- Use only warm water or soft baby wipes to clean. Soap can cause irritation in the diaper region, disrupt the vaginal ecosystem, and result in an itchy rash.
- Wipe just from the front to the rear of the area to avoid the risk of infections such as UTIs.
- Clean the genital region entirely after using the restroom.
- It’s also good to look within the labia, where spit and extra diaper cream might collect.
[Read : Urinary Tract Infection in Babies]
When Should You Consider Consulting a Doctor?
Despite the typical occurrence of vaginal bleeding in newborn baby girls, certain situations need immediate medical attention. A doctor or a hospital should be seen if the bleeding doesn’t cease within a few days or if you detect a foul odor emanating from her vagina.
Many newborn females have typical vaginal bleeding throughout their first few weeks. There is no need to be concerned, though, since your daughter will not have her second menstrual cycle for at least a decade or more.
The mother’s hormones may affect a fetus during pregnancy. Other factors, such as prenatal exposure to these hormones, might raise the risk of vaginal bleeding in babies.
Parents may notice a bloody in their baby’s diapers which can be a cause for concern. In the majority of situations, however, this is seen as typical. There are several reasons why a baby may have vaginal bleeding, and it’s essential to know when to be concerned.
FAQ’s
1. Is Vaginal Bleeding Frequent in Infants?
When your daughter is only 2 or 3 days old, she may begin to bleed from her vagina. This is entirely natural because of their exposed hormones while still in the womb. This will be their only menstrual cycle for the next decade or so.
2. Is it Typical For Babies to Have Bloody Discharge?
In the first few weeks after delivery, it is typical for newborn baby girls to experience bloody vaginal discharge. Your baby’s reaction to the mother’s hormones, which are still present in your baby’s system. It’s best to contact your doctor if the discharge doesn’t go away.
3. Why Does My Newborn’s Diaper Have Blood in it?
It is common for newborn girls to have a little patch of blood in their diapers, produced by the mother’s hormones impacting the baby’s uterus in the first week after delivery.
Read Also: Diaper Rashes – Causes, Treatment, Home Remedies and Precautions
