Week 4 postpartum
In short: what happens in week 4 postpartum?
In week 4 postpartum your womb shrinks to about 100 g and, for most mothers, postnatal bleeding becomes very light or stops. If you are not breastfeeding, your first period may come at weeks 6–8. This week it helps to learn about expressing and storing milk, spot the signs of anaemia and pay attention to what you eat.
Week 4 postpartum – animated guide
Week 4 (days {from}–{to}): the postpartum dial, womb, postnatal bleeding and your baby’s development (illustrative animation).
Mum
If tiredness persists, it may be due to iron deficiency; a blood count can help. Stitch and wound scars start to fade.
Your baby today
Your baby is nearly one month old: they turn towards your voice and try to lift their head briefly. In many countries the second dose of hepatitis B vaccine is given at the end of the first month.
Feeding and nutrition
If you plan to express, it is easier to start once breastfeeding is well established. Up to 2–3 cups of tea or coffee a day are usually fine.
Emotions and rest
Confidence grows as a routine forms; even so, asking for help and resting are not weakness but part of recovery.
Check-ups
Your baby’s one-month check and vaccination; a blood count for you if you are very tired.
Tips for today
- Label expressed milk with the date
- Eat iron-rich foods together with vitamin C
- Remind any doctor or pharmacist that you are breastfeeding before taking medicines
- Gradually increase your daily walks
When to seek medical help
See your doctor if bleeding becomes heavy again, smells bad, or you have a fever, or extreme tiredness together with palpitations and breathlessness.
Postpartum week by week
Bleeding, Colostrum and Milk
Womb Shrinking, Cord Falling Off
Growth Spurt and Emotional Health
Bleeding Easing, First Month
Exercise, Sex and Contraception
The 6-Week Check and Day 40
Frequently asked questions
Can postpartum bleeding last 4 weeks?
Yes, it can last 4–6 weeks; it is normal for it to continue as a lighter, yellowish-white discharge.
When does your first period come after birth?
Usually at weeks 6–8 if you are not breastfeeding, and months later if you are exclusively breastfeeding.
How long can expressed breast milk be stored?
About 4 hours at room temperature, up to 4 days in the fridge and about 6 months in the freezer.
Can I drink coffee while breastfeeding?
200–300 mg of caffeine a day (about 2–3 cups) is generally considered safe; cut down if your baby seems unsettled.
Postnatal care at SoftCare Clinic
Book an appointment with our specialist doctors for a postnatal check, breastfeeding problems, a stitch or wound check, or support with postnatal depression.
The information on this page is general guidance for an uncomplicated postpartum period and does not replace a medical examination. Heavy bleeding, fever, breathlessness, chest pain, or thoughts of harming yourself or your baby are emergencies: call your local emergency number (999 / 911 / 112).
Medical content editor: Op. Dr. Şükrü Sanus