This is another name for the 'postpartum' period

1. Puerperium

This is another name for the 'postpartum' period. It is 6 weeks following delivery. It is a time of recovery and stabilization for a new family. Changes during this period are abrupt.

2. Involution

This is the return of the uterus to a non-pregnant state after birth.

3. The 10th Day

By this day after delivery, you should no longer feel the fundus on the abdomen.

4. Subinvolution

This is the failure of the uterus to return to pre-pregnant state. In order to monitor the progress, assessment of the fundal height, and lochia are important. Also, identify potential problems such as; retained placenta, and bleeding. These are the only way to accurately detect problems.

5. Factors the Enhance Involution

These include:
- Uncomplicated labor and delivery
- Breast-Feeding
- Early Ambulation
- Complete expulsion of placenta and membranes

6. Factors that slow Involution

These include:
- Prolonged labor and difficult delivery
- Anesthesia
- Grand multiparity
- Retained placental fragments or membranes
- Full urinary bladder
- Over distension of the uterus

7. Oxytocin Secretion

This does two things:
1.) Stimulates the production of milk (let down reflex)
2.) Contraction of the uterus

8. After pain

This is an uncomfortable cramping throughout early puerperium. Breastfeeding and exogenous oxytocin intensify this. It is more noticeable in a distended uterus (due to large baby or multiple gestations)

9. Hormonal Levels Decrease (estrogen & progesterone, leading to decrease in LH/FSH/Prolactin levels)

After expulsion of the placenta, this can lead to breast engorgement and postpartum diuresis. It is believed by some women that this can be used as a form of postpartum contraception (not in ever case, however).

10. 7 - 9 weeks (Sometimes 12)

This is when menstruation resumes. This can be prolonged in lactating women.