03/09/2025
INVOLUTION OF THE UTERUS AFTER DELIVERY.
After childbirth, your uterus undergoes involution, or a process of shrinking back to its nonpregnant size.
This process begins immediately and typically takes about six weeks to complete.
You will experience uterine contractions and after-pains as the uterus hardens and shrinks, and you will have vaginal bleeding called lochia.
You should monitor for signs of complications such as heavy bleeding, foul-smelling discharge, or fever, and contact your healthcare provider if you have concerns.
NORMAL INVOLUTION PROCESS
1. IMMEDIATE POSTPARTUM:
After the placenta is delivered, the uterus contracts to stop the bleeding. The top of the uterus (fundus) will be at or near your navel.
2. GRADUAL SHRINKING:
The fundus will descend about one centimeter (or one fingerbreadth) each day, gradually moving down into your pelvis.
3. RETURN TO PELVIS:
By about 5-7 days postpartum, the uterus is usually halfway between the navel and the p***c bone. It will return to its normal size and position within your pelvic cavity by the end of the first two weeks, with the entire process taking up to six weeks.
AFTER-PAINS
What they are:
You may experience cramps, called after-pains, as the uterus continues to contract and shrink.
Why they happen:
These contractions help prevent further bleeding from the area where the placenta was attached.
RELIEF:
You can try lying on your stomach with a pillow under your lower abdomen, taking a walk, or using a heating pad. pain relievers prescribed by doctor can help.
LOCHIA
Lochia is the v discharge you will experience as the uterine lining regenerates and the placental site heals.
NORMAL LOCHIA:
For the first few days, it will be bright red and bl@, then it will become pinkish or brownish and the quantity will decrease.
WHEN TO SEEK HELP:
✅Contact your healthcare provider if you experience a foul-smelling odor, a heavy flow (soaking a pad every hour), or large bl@ clots.
WHEN TO CONTACT YOUR DOCTOR.
Seek medical attention if you experience:
✅Heavy or persistent bl@.
✅A foul-smelling v@gin disch@rge.
✅A fever, chills, or flu-like symptoms.
✅Severe or worsening pelvic pain or cramp
