Word parts
What it means
The period that starts when the placenta is delivered and lasts about six weeks. The uterus shrinks back toward its normal size, vaginal bleeding (lochia) slowly lightens and changes color, and breast milk comes in. The word is also used for the parent in this period ("the postpartum client").
For the nurse
In the first hours check the fundus (top of the uterus), the amount of bleeding, the vital signs and the bladder. A soft, boggy fundus with heavy bleeding needs fundal massage and a call for help. Ask about mood as well, because postpartum depression is common.
In a chart
"Postpartum day 1: fundus firm at umbilicus, lochia rubra moderate, voiding without difficulty."
At a glance
| Abbreviations | PP |
|---|---|
| Spanish | posparto |
| Also written | post-partum, postpartal |
Related terms
hemorrhage
A large loss of blood from a blood vessel, inside the body or out of it.
ante-
A word beginning that means before, in time or in place.
uterine contraction
A tightening and then relaxing of the muscle of the uterus (womb), as happens during labor.