Postpartum Physiology
This process refers to the uterus returning to its pre-pregnancy size.
What is involution?
This hormone stimulates milk production in the postpartum period.
What is prolactin?
This early postpartum phase focuses on rest and recovery for the mother.
What is the taking-in phase?
This complication involves increased clotting risk postpartum.
What is thrombosis?
This mask-like facial discoloration is common during pregnancy.
What is chloasma or melasma?
This term describes the vaginal discharge that occurs after childbirth.
What is lochia?
This reflex causes the ejection of milk from the breast.
What is the let-down reflex?
In this phase, the mother begins to take charge of newborn care.
What is the taking-hold phase?
This is the most common cause of postpartum hemorrhage.
What is uterine atony?
This dark vertical line appears on the abdomen during pregnancy.
What is the linea nigra?
This hormone promotes uterine contractions and milk let-down during breastfeeding.
What is oxytocin?
This hormone increases during breastfeeding and helps shrink the uterus.
What is oxytocin?
The emotional process of adjusting to new motherhood is part of this phase.
What is the letting-go phase?
Mothers may experience these pains as the uterus contracts post-delivery.
What are afterpains?
This skin change causes darkening of the nipple and surrounding area.
What is hyperpigmentation of the areola?
This breast condition occurs when blood flow and milk buildup causes painful swelling.
What is engorgement?
This hormone is primarily responsible for lactation.
What is prolactin?
A common emotional response marked by mood swings and tearfulness.
What are postpartum blues?
Name one sign of a postpartum infection.
What is fever, foul-smelling lochia, or uterine tenderness?
These reddish or purplish marks on the abdomen, hips, or breasts are caused by skin stretching.
What are striae gravidarum?
The separation of abdominal muscles postpartum is known as this.
What is diastasis recti?
A condition of cramping caused by uterine contractions during breastfeeding.
What are afterpains?
This condition is a more serious and persistent mood disorder after birth.
What is postpartum depression?
Name one intervention a nurse should perform if a Postpartum hemorrhage is suspected.
What is fundal massage, notify provider, assess VS, or increase IV fluids?
This condition often results in temporary thinning or shedding of hair after pregnancy.
What is postpartum hair loss?