A client who is due to give birth any time asks the doula what changes in the reproductive system she should expect after the delivery. Which of the following statements by the doula is the most appropriate?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The uterus never completely returns to its pre-pregnancy state. Involution is the process by which the reproductive organs return to their pre-pregnancy state. Although the uterus returns to its pre-pregnant size, its cavity becomes larger, its vessels become more convoluted, the external orifice is more marked, fissures are observed on its edges and the muscles are more defined. After birth, the uterus will weigh about 1,000 grams, but by the 6^thweek, it will weigh about 50 grams. The rate of uterine involution follows a usual pattern and rate. An hour after delivery, the fundus is palpated at the level of the umbilicus. In the next 24 hours, the fundus is expected to go down by one finger's breadth. On the second day, it is palpated two finger's breadths from the uterus. On the 10^th day the fundus is non palpable.

A Client Who Is Due to Give Birth Any Time