What is uterine involution?
Reduction of hypertrophy of uterus to revert to a pre-pregnant state
What reduction in size does the uterus undergo in involution?
1kg to 100g
Where can the uterus be palpated?
In pregnancy - above umbilicus
10 days after pregnancy, should revert to pre-pregnancy size
What changes does the cervix undergo in puerperium?
Becomes firm over 3 days
Internal os closed by 3 days
External os closed by 3w
What may the woman complain of during uterine involution?
Afterpains, similar to contractions, especially after breastfeeding
What is lochia?
Endometrial slough, red cells, white cells, passed PV Initially red (Lochia rubra), then turns yellow after 3 days (Lochia serosa), then white after 10 days (Lochia alba) which persists for up to 6w
What does persistent red lochia, failure of uterine involution or PPH suggest?
Endometritis
Retained products