Obstetrics and Gynecology - A.M. Gromova 2000
Clinical Course and Management of the Postpartum Period
Management of the Postpartum Period
Breast Care
To prevent nipple fissures and lactational mastitis, proper care of the Mammary Glands and nipples is essential:
1. Once a day, preferably before the first feeding, take a warm shower or wash the breasts with warm Water and soap, and put on clean underwear.
2. Wash your hands with a brush and soap before every feeding.
3. Before feeding, treat the nipple using a cotton swab moistened with a disinfecting solution of furatsilin (1:5000), potassium permanganate (1:4000), or brilliant green.
4. During the first 24 hours, the mother feeds the baby while lying down, and starting from the 2nd day, in a sitting position.
5. Do not latch the baby immediately, but 3–5 minutes after bringing them to the breast (milk begins to flow after this interval).
6. Before placing the nipple into the baby's Mouth, express a few drops of milk until it flows in a steady stream.
7. Ensure that the infant takes in not only the nipple but also a portion of the areola.
8. The mother must make sure that the breast does not obstruct the baby's Nose.
9. Feed for no longer than 15 minutes, alternating between both breasts.
10. After each feeding, express the mammary gland without traumatizing it.
11. After feeding and milk expression, wash and dry the nipple and areolar area.
12. During breastfeeding, the infant receives an adequate amount of water and therefore does not require additional fluids.
In case of milk stasis, express it manually or using a breast pump. This should be done regularly, According to the baby's feeding schedule.
Improper feeding technique, strong infant suction, lactostase, and nipple anomalies (flat or inverted nipples) contribute to The Development of nipple fissures. The clinical picture is characterized by pain during feeding, visually identifiable fissures, hyperemia, and occasional bleeding from the fissure surface. Treatment includes applying rosehip oil, sea buckthorn oil, Kalanchoe juice, aloe juice, or calendula. Physical therapy Methods include laser therapy and ultraviolet irradiation (UVI).
To prevent postpartum septic complications, maintaining cleanliness in postpartum wards and properly caring for items used by the mother and newborn is crucial. Everything that comes into contact with the mother's mammary glands and genital Organs must be sterile.
Maternity leave is granted starting from 30 weeks of Pregnancy for a duration of 126 days, including 56 days of the postnatal period. In case of complicated labor, an additional 2 weeks of leave are granted.
1. What is the postpartum period?
2. How does uterine involution proceed, and what factors does it depend on?
3. How does the involution of the cervix progress?
4. When does the epithelialization of the inner lining of the Uterus complete?
5. What are lochia?
6. What is The Nature of lochia throughout the postpartum period?
7. How does the function of the mammary glands change?
8. What is The Significance of colostrum in infant feeding?
9. What are the key principles of modern breastfeeding management?
10. What are the hygiene requirements for the postpartum period?
11. What are the specific management features for women with uterine subinvolution?
Last update: 08/08/2026
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