mb has
contracted firmly, as shown by the quick change in the amount and color of
the lochia. Women should be told why they must remain on their backs as
explained in the chapter: "How long should a woman remain in bed?"

THE LOCHIA.--The discharge which occurs after every labor is called the
lochia. Its color is red for the first four or five days; for the
succeeding two or three days it is yellow; for the remainder of its
existence it is of a whitish color. It lasts from ten days to three weeks.

The odor of the lochia is at first that of fresh blood; later it has the
odor peculiar to these parts. If at any time the odor should become foul or
putrid it is a danger signal to which the nurse should immediately draw the
physician's attention.

If the amount of the lochia should be excessive it should be investigated.

THE EVENTS OF THE DAY FOLLOWING LABOR.--We will assume that the patient
enjoyed a long sleep and wakes up refreshed, and with a thankful feeling
that all is over and that baby is safely here. She will want to see and
caress baby, of course. Lay the baby down in bed beside her and let her
love and mother it. Tell her not to lift it, for the strain might injure
her, then quietly steal away for ten or fifteen minutes, for these are
precious, sacred moments. Motherhood--that angel spirit, whose influence
every human heart has felt--that guards and guides the world in its
sheltering arms--is born in its divine sense, into the heart of every woman
for the first time, as she gazes in ecstasy and wonder at her [105]
first-born. She feels that she has begotten a trust,--a trust direct from
her Creator, and she makes a silent resolve, as she gently and timidly
feels the softness of baby's cheek, that she will watch over it, and guide
it, and do all a mother can for it, with God's help. It is good for the
race that mothers do feel this way: and it is good for all concerned that
they be given the opportunity to be so inspired.

Just as gently take the baby away at the expiration of the allotted time.
Take it with a cheerful, smiling word, and do not comment upon mother's
happy, thoughtful face, she will quickly collect herself and enter into the
spirit of quiet congratulation that should now permeate the home.

THE FIRST BREAKFAST AFTER LABOR.--If the patient has passed a comfortable
night, feels well, and is free from temperature, and has a normal pulse,
breakfast will consist of a cup of warm milk, or a c