Final answer:
Afterpains are uterine contractions that occur after childbirth, aiding in the process of involution. The delivery of the placenta marks the end of labor and the beginning of the postpartum period, where breastfeeding can enhance these contractions to minimize bleeding and promote uterine shrinkage.
Step-by-step explanation:
Afterpains, or after-birth pains, refer to uterine contractions that occur following childbirth. These contractions are a natural part of the postpartum period, helping the uterus to return to its pre-pregnancy size, a process known as involution. The delivery of the placenta, which follows the birth of the newborn, highlights the end of labor and is commonly known as the afterbirth stage.
The myometrium, which is the muscle layer of the uterine wall, continues to contract after the delivery of the newborn. This shears the placenta from the uterine wall and is expelled through the vagina. After this, uterine contractions help to reduce blood loss from the placental site and allow the uterus to shrink down. Breastfeeding can augment these contractions as it releases oxytocin, a hormone that stimulates the uterus to contract.
If the placenta is not delivered within about 30 minutes postpartum, it is considered to be retained, which might necessitate manual removal by the obstetrician or even surgical intervention if that is unsuccessful. It is critical that the obstetrician examines the expelled placenta and membranes to ensure that no fragments are left behind, which could cause postpartum hemorrhage due to continued uterine bleeding.