Why Do Some Newborn Girls Bleed? Gynaecologist Weighs In

Do you know that many newborn girls bleed? I didn’t know until I learnt about this interesting fact, which made me dive into the depths of the internet. The vaginal bleeding happens in the first few days after the birth, and it is often accompanied by a few symptoms.

Usually, this is not severe and remains mild. It is like periods in a grown teenager, but unlike the menstrual cycle, the flow isn’t heavy. So what is it? We connected with a specialist to shed light on this phenomenon.

Mini Periods Among Newborn Girls

Since we cannot reply on the internet to verify facts, especially medical ones, we spoke to Dr Deepa Dewan, senior director, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Cloudnine Group of Hospitals, Gurugram.

She said, “It is scientifically incorrect to say that girl children have periods or bleed after they are born.” They do not experience menstruation. This phenomenon of vaginal bleeding is called ‘pseudo-menstruation’ or ‘mini periods’. It includes a small amount of spotting or vaginal discharge.

Why Newborn Girls Experience Mini Periods?

Dr Dewan clarified that newborn girls experience mini periods due to the influence of maternal hormones that babies are often exposed to during pregnancy. After birth, babies experience hormonal imbalance which leads to minor vaginal discharge.

The expert said that it is a natural process and parents need not worry about it. The phenomenon also resolves without medical intervention. When a baby is growing in the womb, they are exposed to maternal hormones, especially oestrogen. The hormones travel from the mother to the baby through the placenta.

Hence, the baby’s body becomes accustomed to these hormones.

Outside the womb, a newborn has to adjust a lot because their body has to withstand a lot of transition. The withdrawal of hormones in this period leads to vaginal discharge or spotting.

How Does Vaginal Discharge In Newborns Look Like?

Dr Dewan said that the amount of vaginal discharge is quite small, and it is in no way related to the menstrual cycle. It is temporary and often occurs between 2-10 days of the birth.

However, new parents should know that the baby would require some time to adjust to this postnatal process. It is not a cause for concern, but parents can reach out to a paediatrician or healthcare expert if mini periods are accompanied by a few visible symptoms.

Don't Miss: 5 Personal Care Habits For A Holistic And Healthy Lifestyle Expert Weighs In

Facts About Mini Periods Among Newborn Girls

Here are a few facts that new parents must note regarding mini periods so that if their baby experiences them, it does not alarm them.

Transient Phase Of Mini Periods

Mini periods are transient. They are temporary and fade away in a couple of days. Doctors don’t have to prescribe any medicine for this.

Vaginal Discharge During Mini Periods

If your baby wears a nappy or diaper, you might notice vaginal discharge or spotting. The colour could range from white to slightly pink or bloody red.

Don't Miss: Vitamin K: Nutritionist Shares Symptoms Of Deficiency, Food Sources To Add To Your Diet

No Discomfort During Mini Periods

If you are concerned that your baby will be experiencing pain during mini periods, rest assured because, unlike menstruation, your kid is not experiencing cramps. The amount of discharge is quite small, and it does not cause distress.

If you are concerned about any other symptom your child is experiencing, you should consult a doctor immediately.