Involution of the uterus : Involution is a process whereby the genital organs revert back approximately to the state as they were before pregnancy. INTRODUCTION
Size of the uterus : Non pregnant state – 7.5cms in length and 60gm in weight. Pregnant state – 35cms in length and 900-1000gm in weight. Puerperium – 7.5cms in length and 60gms in weight.
Definition – When the involution is impaired or retarded it is called subinvolution. The uterus is the most common organ affected in subinvolution. SUBINVOLUTION
PREDISPOSING FACTORS- Grand multiparity Over-distension of the uterus Maternal ill health CAUSES
PREDISPOSING FACTORS- Caesarean section Prolapse of the uterus
Retroversion after the uterus becomes pelvic organ Uterine fibroid
AGGRAVATING FACTORS ARE : Retained products of conception Uterine sepsis( endometritis )
Asymptomatic Abnormal lochial discharge (excessive or prolonged) Excessive uterine bleeding Irregular cramp like pain SYMPTOMS
The uterine height is greater than the normal Presence of features responsible for subinvolution may be evident SIGNS
Mere size of the uterus is not important if there is absence of features such as excessive lochial or irregular bleeding or sepsis, the size of, appropriate therapy is to be instituted only when subinvolution is found to be a mere sign of some local pathology MANAGEMENT
Antibiotics in endometritis Exploration of the uterus in retained products Pessary in prolapse or retroversion. Methargin - to enhance the involution process MANAGEMENT