Maternal Care During Postpartum Period

The process of producing and releasing milk by the mammary glands.

Automatic reflexes in a newborn that stimulate milk production.

The release of milk from the mammary glands.

Benefits of breastfeeding for both mother and infant.

Bacteria in the intestines that help digestion.

First stool of a newborn.

Changes in the abdominal wall and skin after delivery.

Normal blood loss during childbirth.

Blood volume measurement that returns to pre-pregnancy levels usually within 4-6 weeks following delivery.

White blood cell count increases following delivery.

Clotting factors in the blood remain elevated for some time.

Swollen veins in the legs, caused by pregnancy hormones and pressure.

Water retention and swelling in limbs.

Criteria for optimal infant positioning during breastfeeding.

Criteria for optimal infant attachment during breastfeeding.

The return of the uterus to its normal size after childbirth.

Muscle fiber contraction, catabolism, and regeneration are the three processes involved in the uterus returning to its normal size.

The uterus firmly contracts to stop bleeding from the placental attachment site.

Enlarged muscle cells shrink through the breakdown of proteins in their cytoplasm.

The endometrium is regenerated, healing the placental site within a few weeks.

Sloughed-off endometrial surface discharged after delivery.

The uterus shrinks approximately 1cm (fingerbreadth) per day, becoming a pelvic organ by the 2nd week.

The cervix becomes less firm and gradually closes, admitting one fingertip by the end of the first week after delivery; its shape changes from round to slitlike.

The vagina is edematous and may have lacerations; daily inspection for healing is important. Observe for REEDA (redness, edema, ecchymosis, discharge, approximation).

Usually anovulatory, menses returns in 6-10 weeks, or longer for lactating women.

Lactating women typically have less predictable return of menses (12-24 weeks), while non-lactating women typically have menses return sooner (6-10 weeks).

Occurs after 3rd day postpartum. Temporary breast swelling due to circulatory congestion that usually resolves in 24-36 hours.

Colostrum, a precursor to breast milk, is produced for a few days. True breast milk follows within 1-2 days, increasing in quantity after.

The release of oxytocin stimulates the release of breast milk from the breasts when the nursing baby stimulates the nipples.

Swelling in legs and feet may persist a few days after delivery due to fluctuating hormones.

Deep vein thrombosis in the lower limbs, a complication during the early postpartum period.

Increased urine output and perspiration within 12 hours of delivery.

Presence of milk in urine, common in nursing mothers.

Slight protein in urine for 1-2 days post-delivery.

A full bladder feels firm above the pubic bone.

Difficulty in urination after childbirth, potentially caused by trauma or uterine displacement.

Uterus fails to contract properly, leading to excessive bleeding, often due to a full bladder.

Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (hCG) and Human Placental Lactogen (hPL) are mostly undetectable within 24 hours after birth.

Follicle-stimulating hormone levels are initially low for about 12 days and then rise to prepare for a new menstrual cycle.

Possible constipation due to abdominal and intestinal muscle relaxation, and perineal discomfort.

Slight temperature rise in the first 24 hours after delivery; often due to dehydration during labor.

Decreased blood pressure may suggest ongoing bleeding.

Blood pressure reaching 140/90 mmHg suggests potential pregnancy-induced hypertension.

Soft spots where skull bones meet; openings between skull bones during infancy.

Diamond-shaped fontanel; closes around 12-18 months.

Triangular fontanel; closes around 2-3 months.

Separating lines of skull bones.

Overlapping of skull bones due to pressure during birth.

Scalp swelling; pressure from delivery.

Blood collection under skull bone; caused by blood vessel rupture during birth.

Softening of skull bones; normal in newborns, possibly a sign of disease in older children.

Tear production may be delayed; lacrimal duct matures at 3 months.

Pulse rate slightly slower than normal initially due to increased stroke volume, but returns to normal by the first week as blood volume stabilizes.

Regularly check the firmness of the uterus (fundus) after delivery; gently massage if not firm.

Regularly assess the perineum for bleeding, noting color, amount, and odor of lochia (vaginal discharge), and pad saturation.

Evaluate bladder function, considering possible causes for difficulty voiding: birth trauma, anesthesia, or pain.

Assess vital signs (temperature, blood pressure, pulse, respiration) frequently after delivery to detect any abnormalities.

Assess breast engorgement and nipple condition, especially if breastfeeding is planned or is occurring.

Assess bowel function, keeping in mind factors like hemorrhoids, episiotomy, and lacerations which may delay the first bowel movement.

Teach the mother perineal care methods: hygiene practices, and lochia management, including frequent pad changes.

Sitz baths ease perineal discomfort during recovery and can include warm water or other soothing mixtures.

Warm water or guava decoction application during urination can relieve discomfort.

Emphasize iron, protein, and vitamin-rich foods for healing. Include fiber-rich foods for healthy bowel habits.

Evaluating the patient's bowel sounds, return of function, flatus, and stool color and consistency.

Perineal and uterine wounds generally heal within 2-4 weeks.

Exercises like toe stretches and Kegel exercises are important for regaining strength and flexibility after delivery.

Following childbirth, rest and controlled movement are crucial for recovery.

Intercourse can typically resume when perineal and uterine wounds have healed.

Postpartum mothers may experience feelings like abandonment or disappointment.

A common, temporary period of sadness, mood swings, and emotional fluctuations following childbirth.

Emotional and social adjustments experienced by new mothers.

New parents learn essential physical skills (feeding, holding, changing diapers, etc.) for infant care.

Developing a caring relationship with the baby; includes identifying similarities between baby and family members.

First 3 days postpartum; mother focuses on her own needs (sleep, food).

Days 3-10 postpartum; mother takes more control of mothering tasks.

Postpartum phase where mothers may grieve the separation from their body and struggle with dependent/independent roles.

From birth to 28 days.

A newborn infant.

A quick assessment of a newborn's health immediately after birth, measuring heart rate, respiration, muscle tone, reflexes, and skin color.