In plain words
The placental site is the spot inside the uterus where the placenta was attached. After birth, that area is raw. It heals over several weeks as new lining grows in from the edges. This healing is part of why you bleed after birth, and why the bleeding slowly lightens. The area is not a wound on the outside of the body and does not need care from you. Bleeding that becomes heavy, bright red again, or comes with fever, a bad smell, or severe pain needs a call to your provider the same day. Heavy bleeding that soaks a pad an hour needs emergency care.
The deeper version
The placental site heals by a distinctive process in which regenerating endometrium grows from the margins and from basal glands beneath the site, undermining the necrotic superficial layer, which is shed into the rather than forming a scar (Williams Obstetrics, Cunningham et al., 26th edition, 2022, describing the process first noted by Williams in 1931). is typically complete over about six weeks, and retained tissue or prolonged bleeding are reasons for evaluation. Late postpartum bleeding and placental site are differentiated clinically. Placental site trophoblastic tumor is a rare, distinct neoplasm and should not be confused with normal healing.
Where it comes up
- Postpartum bleeding (lochia): what's normal, what's notPostpartum: Your Body
- Healing a tear or stitchesPostpartum: Your Body
- Afterpains: cramping while nursingPostpartum: Your Body
- Postpartum warning signs: the one-page listPostpartum: Your Body
- Heavy bleeding after birth (hemorrhage)Birth and the First Days
What mothers here say about placental site
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Sources
- Cunningham FG et al. — Williams Obstetrics, 26th edition (2022)