Postpartum Adaptations chapters 15 & 16

These flashcards cover key vocabulary and concepts related to postpartum adaptations, psychological changes, and nursing management.

Taking-in phase

The period immediately after birth when the patient needs others to meet their needs and relives the birth process.

Taking-hold phase

The second phase characterized by dependent and independent maternal behavior.

Letting-go phase

The third phase in which the patient reestablishes relationships with others.

Puerperium

The period after delivery of the placenta, lasting for 6 weeks, known as the 'fourth trimester'.

Involution

The contraction of muscle fibers, catabolism, and regeneration of the uterine epithelium.

Lochia

The vaginal discharge after childbirth, which occurs in three stages: rubra, serosa, alba.

Postpartum diuresis

The large amount of urine production after birth, often due to IV fluids given during labor.

Engorgement

The process of swelling of the breast tissue due to an increase in blood and lymph supply as a precursor to lactation.

Bonding

The close emotional attraction to a newborn by the parents that develops within the first 30 to 60 minutes after birth.

Attachment

The development of a strong affection between an infant and a significant other, such as parents or caregivers.

Postpartum depression

A mental health condition characterized by severe mood swings, irritability, and difficulty forming a bond with the newborn.

Cultural considerations

Recognizing and respecting the varied postpartum beliefs, practices, and customs across different cultures.

Taking-in phase

The period immediately after birth when the patient needs others to meet their needs and relives the birth process.

Taking-hold phase

The second phase characterized by dependent and independent maternal behavior.

Letting-go phase

The third phase in which the patient reestablishes relationships with others.

Puerperium

The period after delivery of the placenta, lasting for 6 weeks, known as the 'fourth trimester'.

Involution

The contraction of muscle fibers, catabolism, and regeneration of the uterine epithelium.

Lochia

The vaginal discharge after childbirth, which occurs in three stages: rubra, serosa, alba.

Postpartum diuresis

The large amount of urine production after birth, often due to IV fluids given during labor.

Engorgement

The process of swelling of the breast tissue due to an increase in blood and lymph supply as a precursor to lactation.

Bonding

The close emotional attraction to a newborn by the parents that develops within the first 30 to 60 minutes after birth.

Attachment

The development of a strong affection between an infant and a significant other, such as parents or caregivers.

Postpartum depression

A mental health condition characterized by severe mood swings, irritability, and difficulty forming a bond with the newborn.

Cultural considerations

Recognizing and respecting the varied postpartum beliefs, practices, and customs across different cultures.

What is Lochia rubra?

The first stage of vaginal discharge post-childbirth, consisting of blood, decidual and trophoblastic debris, lasting 3-4 days.

What is Lochia serosa?

The second stage of vaginal discharge post-childbirth, appearing pinkish-brown, consisting of old blood, serum, leukocytes, and tissue debris, lasting from day 4-10 postpartum.

What is Lochia alba?

The final stage of vaginal discharge post-childbirth, appearing whitish-yellow, consisting of leukocytes, decidua cells, epithelial cells, fat, and mucus, lasting from day 10 up to 6 weeks postpartum.

What are 'baby blues'?

A transient period of sadness, anxiety, and mood swings experienced by many new mothers, typically resolving within 2 weeks postpartum without intervention.

What is postpartum hemorrhage (PPH)?

Blood loss exceeding 500 \ \text{mL} after a vaginal birth or 1000 \ \text{mL} after a C-section, within 24 hours of birth, or up to 6 weeks postpartum, a leading cause of maternal morbidity and mortality.

Why is fundal height assessed postpartum?

To monitor uterine involution; the fundus should descend approximately 1 \ \text{cm} (one finger breadth) per day below the umbilicus after birth.

What are 'afterpains'?

Cramping sensations caused by uterine contractions as the uterus involutes, often more intense in multiparous women and during breastfeeding due to oxytocin release.

What is essential perineal care postpartum?

Measures such as ice packs, sitz baths, pain medication, and proper hygiene to promote healing and reduce discomfort after vaginal birth, especially with episiotomy or lacerations.