- Postpartum period begins after delivery towards when reproductive tract returns to normal non pregnant state.
- Involution is the time when uterus returns to non pregnant state.
- Weight of uterus reduced from 2 lbs. to 2 oz.
- Endometrium regenerates.
- Fundus descends into pelvis; fundal height decreases about 1cm per day; by 10th day post partumly, fundus cannot be palpated abdominally.
Cervix and Vagina -
The muscles of the cervix after a week regenerates.
External os remains wider.
Internal os is closed after a week.
Vaginal distention decreases.
Vaginal rugae reappeared by third week.
Lacerations or episiotomy suture line gradually heal.
Ovarian Function and Menstruation
Dependent on hoe pituitary functions.
Menses returns within 8 weeks for non breastfeeding women and 3-4 months for breastfeeding mothers.
BF mothers may experience amenorrhea.
Woman may ovulate without menstruating.
Breast
Continue to secrete colostrums.
Breasts become distended with milk on third day.
Engorgement 48-72 hours in non-breastfeeding clients.
Urinary Tract
Urinary retention may be experienced as a result of loss of elasticity and tone and loss of sensation from drugs, trauma or loss of privacy.
Diuresis will be experienced within first 12 hours after delivery.
Kidney function returns to normal easily.
Gastrointestinal
Client will feel extremely starve after delivery.
Constipation is occurring due to loss of tone and perineal tenderness.
Hemorrhoids are common but eventually subsides.
Vascular System
WBC increases during labor and delivery, as well as early post partum period, then return to normal after a few days.
Hemoglobin and RBC decreased and return to normal value after a week.
Elevated fibrinogen levels during first week postpartum and contribute to thrombophlebitis.
Blood volume is back by third week.
Vital signs
Temperature may be elevated to 100.4 degrees F (38 degrees C) during first 24 hours after delivery without pathologic condition.
Bradycardia is usual for a week, about 50-70.
Blood pressure must be unchanged.
