Childbirth Educator Postpartum Care 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: What is uterine involution?
- The process of the uterus returning to its pre-pregnancy size after birth (Correct answer)
- The placenta separating from the uterine wall
- The opening of the cervix during labor
- Uterine infection after delivery
Correct answer: The process of the uterus returning to its pre-pregnancy size after birth
Uterine involution is the physiological process by which the uterus contracts and shrinks back to its non-pregnant size over approximately 6 weeks postpartum.
Question 2: What is a perineal laceration repair and what degree is considered most severe?
- A sutured tear of perineal tissue; fourth-degree is most severe (Correct answer)
- A surgical incision; first-degree is most severe
- A bruise of the perineum; second-degree is most severe
- A skin abrasion; third-degree is most severe
Correct answer: A sutured tear of perineal tissue; fourth-degree is most severe
Perineal lacerations are tears that may occur during birth; fourth-degree tears extend through the anal sphincter and rectal mucosa and are the most severe.
Question 3: What ACOG-recommended screenings should occur at the postpartum visit?
- Depression screening, blood pressure check, and contraception counseling (Correct answer)
- Glucose tolerance test and thyroid panel only
- STI testing and Pap smear only
- Hemoglobin A1C and colonoscopy
Correct answer: Depression screening, blood pressure check, and contraception counseling
The comprehensive postpartum visit should include depression screening (such as the Edinburgh scale), blood pressure monitoring, and contraception counseling at minimum.
Question 4: When is it generally safe to resume sexual activity after vaginal birth?
- After 6 weeks or when cleared by a provider (Correct answer)
- Immediately after discharge from hospital
- After 3 months postpartum
- Only after the first menstrual period returns
Correct answer: After 6 weeks or when cleared by a provider
Most providers recommend waiting until approximately 6 weeks postpartum for sexual activity to allow healing of perineal tissues and the uterine lining.
Question 5: What is the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale used for?
- Screening for postpartum depression and anxiety symptoms (Correct answer)
- Measuring postpartum blood loss
- Assessing newborn feeding ability
- Evaluating uterine involution progress
Correct answer: Screening for postpartum depression and anxiety symptoms
The Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) is a validated 10-item questionnaire used to screen new mothers for postpartum depression and anxiety.
Question 6: What is the most common cause of postpartum hemorrhage?
- Uterine atony (Correct answer)
- Retained placental fragments
- Cervical lacerations
- Coagulation disorders
Correct answer: Uterine atony
Uterine atony, the failure of the uterus to contract properly after delivery, accounts for approximately 70–80% of all postpartum hemorrhage cases.
Childbirth Educator Postpartum Care 2
What is uterine involution?