A woman will be discharged 48 hours after a vaginal delivery. When planning discharge teaching, the nurse would include what information about lochia?

A. Lochia should disappear 2 to 4 weeks postpartum: Normal postpartum lochia gradually decreases in amount and changes color from red (lochia rubra) to pink or brown (lochia serosa) and finally to yellow-white (lochia alba). Complete resolution typically occurs within 4 to 6 weeks after delivery. B. A decrease in flow will be noticed with ambulation and activity: Activity and ambulation usually increase uterine blood flow, often causing a temporary increase in lochia rather than a decrease. Decreased flow with activity is not expected. C. A change in lochia from pink to bright red should be reported: The expected progression is from red to lighter colors; A return to a bright red flow could be a sign of a postpartum hemorrhage or retained placental fragments. D. It is normal for the lochia to have a slightly foul odor: Foul-smelling lochia can indicate infection, particularly endometritis. Normal lochia may have a mild, earthy odor, so a distinctly foul smell warrants prompt evaluation.