Postpartum Care Practice Questions

Q: In the puerperium, which of the following hormonal changes are responsible for lactogenesis? 1. A sudden fall in the oestrogen levels after delivery 2. Reduction of prolactin inhibiting factor from the hypothalamus 3. Release of prolactin from the anterior pituitary 4. Release of oxytocin from the posterior pituitary Select the correct answer using the code given below :

1, 2 and 3. ***1, 2 and 3*** - **Lactogenesis** (milk production) critically depends on the **sudden drop in estrogen** after delivery, which removes the inhibitory effect on prolactin. - This, combined with the **release of prolactin from the anterior pituitary** (due to reduced **prolactin-inhibiting factor**, or dopamine, from the hypothalamus), stimulates the glandular cells in the breast to produce milk. *1 and 2 only* - This option correctly identifies the sudden fall in **estrogen** and reduction of **prolactin-inhibiting factor**'s influence but omits the direct action of **prolactin** release from the anterior pituitary, which is essential for milk synthesis. - While estrogen decline and reduced PIF are crucial, they lead to the **release of prolactin**, which is the direct stimulus for lactogenesis. *1 and 4* - While the sudden fall in **estrogen** is critical for initiating lactogenesis, **oxytocin** (released from the posterior pituitary) is primarily responsible for **milk ejection (let-down)**, not milk production (lactogenesis). - Oxytocin acts on myoepithelial cells to contract and expel milk, whereas prolactin stimulates milk synthesis. *2, 3 and 4* - This option correctly identifies the reduction of **prolactin-inhibiting factor** and the release of **prolactin**, which are essential for lactogenesis. However, it incorrectly includes **oxytocin**, which is involved in milk ejection, and misses the crucial role of the **fall in estrogen levels** that permits prolactin to act. - The elevated **estrogen levels during pregnancy** inhibit the action of prolactin, so their drop is a prerequisite for effective milk production.

Q: A 32 year old woman is noted to have 1200 cc of blood loss following a spontaneous vaginal delivery and delivery of placenta. The uterine fundus is palpated and noted to be firm. Which of the following is the most likely treatment for this patient?

Surgical repair of cervical tear. **Surgical repair of cervical tear** - The patient presents with **postpartum hemorrhage** (over 1000 mL blood loss) despite a **firm uterine fundus**, which indicates that **uterine atony** is unlikely to be the cause. - A firm uterus in the presence of continuous bleeding suggests a **genital tract laceration**, with a cervical tear being a common site. Surgical repair is necessary to stop the bleeding. *Replacement of inverted uterus* - **Uterine inversion** is characterized by the collapse of the uterine fundus into or through the cervix, which would present as a **soft, non-palpable fundus** or a mass in the vagina. - This patient's fundus is noted to be **firm**, ruling out uterine inversion as the cause of her hemorrhage. *Intramuscular prostaglandin* - **Prostaglandins** (like carboprost tromethamine) are used to treat **uterine atony**, which is characterized by a **soft, boggy uterus**. - The patient's uterus is described as **firm**, indicating that uterine atony is not the primary cause of her hemorrhage. *B-Lynch suture* - The **B-Lynch suture** is a surgical technique primarily used to manage **refractory uterine atony** that has not responded to medical management. - Since the uterus is firm and not atonic, this intervention would not be appropriate for the underlying cause of bleeding in this patient.

Q: Most probable cause of heavy bleeding in a P2L2 during tenth day post partum is:

Retained bits of cotyledons and membranes. ***Retained bits of cotyledons and membranes*** - **Retained placental fragments** prevent the uterus from contracting effectively, leading to uterine atony and heavy bleeding. - This typically presents as secondary postpartum hemorrhage, which occurs **24 hours to 6 weeks postpartum**, consistent with bleeding on the tenth day. *Infected episiotomy wound* - An infected episiotomy wound would primarily cause **local pain**, **swelling**, **redness**, and **purulent discharge**, not heavy uterine bleeding. - While infection can exacerbate pain and discomfort, it does not directly lead to **prolonged or excessive uterine hemorrhage**. *Resumption of menstruation* - Menstruation typically resumes much later postpartum, especially in breastfeeding individuals, often **months after delivery**. - Bleeding on the tenth day is likely related to the **postpartum state** and not a return to normal menstrual cycles. *Subinvolution of placental site* - Subinvolution refers to the failure of the uterus to return to its normal size and state, which can cause **prolonged lochia** and bleeding. - While a possible cause of later postpartum bleeding, **retained placental tissue** is a more direct and common cause for significant hemorrhage on the tenth day.

Q: During immediate puerperium,

the number of white cells increases. ***the number of white cells increases*** - Leukocytosis, or an increase in the number of **white blood cells**, is a common and normal physiological response during the **immediate puerperium**. - This rise in white blood cell count, primarily **neutrophils**, is a protective mechanism against potential infection and aids in the healing process following childbirth. *the number of lymphocytes increases* - While other immune cells contribute to postpartum recovery, a significant increase in **lymphocytes** is not the primary expected change in the immediate puerperium. - Lymphocyte counts may fluctuate but do not typically show the same dramatic immediate increase as neutrophils. *the number of white cells decreases* - A decrease in the number of **white cells** during the immediate puerperium would be an abnormal finding and could indicate a developing complication, such as **immunosuppression** or a severe infection. - Normal physiological changes post-delivery involve an **increase** in white blood cell count as part of the body's recovery and protective mechanisms. *the number of eosinophils increases* - An increase in **eosinophils** is usually associated with **allergic reactions**, parasitic infections, or certain autoimmune conditions. - It is not a typical or expected physiological finding in the immediate postpartum period, and a significant rise might warrant further investigation.

Q: Which one of the following statements is NOT true regarding general physiological changes after delivery?

Cardiac output remains unchanged after delivery. ***Cardiac output remains unchanged after delivery*** - This statement is incorrect because **cardiac output** actually undergoes significant changes postpartum. It **increases immediately after delivery** due to autotransfusion from the now-empty uterus and removal of uteroplacental shunt, peaking within the first hours, before gradually declining to pre-pregnancy levels over several weeks. - The drop in cardiac output after delivery is not immediate or complete, with initial increases followed by a gradual decrease, which refutes the idea of it remaining unchanged. *Blood volume returns to normal by second week* - This statement is generally true; after an initial increase immediately postpartum due to the relief of vena caval compression and autotransfusion, **blood volume progressively decreases** and typically returns to pre-pregnancy levels within the **first few weeks** following delivery. - The excess plasma volume accumulated during pregnancy is lost through diuresis and diaphoresis, bringing total blood volume back to normal. *Pulse may be raised on first day* - This statement is also true; many women experience a **transient increase in heart rate (tachycardia)** during the first 24-48 hours postpartum. - This can be attributed to several factors including **pain**, excitement, **blood loss**, and the rapid physiological changes occurring as the body adjusts after delivery. *Temperature should not be above 99°F* - This statement is largely true, as a **postpartum temperature** above 100.4°F (38°C) on two successive occasions and remaining elevated for more than 24 hours is typically considered a sign of **puerperal fever** and warrants investigation. - A transient rise to 100.4°F (38°C) within the first 24 hours can occur due to **dehydration** or the stress of labor, but sustained elevation above 99°F without a clear explanation should prompt further assessment for infection.

Q: Which of following statements regarding Puerperal sepsis are correct? 1. Multiple per vaginal examinations increase the risk 2. Group A and B beta-haemolytic Streptococcus are among the responsible microorganisms 3. Retained bits of placenta and membrane predispose 4. Vaginal packing can decrease the risk Select the correct answer using the code given below:

1, 2 and 3. ***1, 2 and 3*** - **Multiple per vaginal examinations** introduce exogenous bacteria from the perineum into the sterile uterine cavity, increasing the risk of infection. - **Group A and B beta-haemolytic Streptococcus** are common causative organisms, especially Group A, which can cause severe, rapidly progressive puerperal sepsis. - **Retained products of conception** (placental or membrane fragments) provide a nidus for bacterial growth and interfere with uterine involution, creating a favorable environment for infection. *1, 3 and 4* - This option incorrectly includes "Vaginal packing can decrease the risk" and excludes a correct statement. - While multiple vaginal examinations and retained tissue increase risk, **vaginal packing** can actually increase the risk of infection by creating an anaerobic environment and trapping bacteria. *2, 3 and 4* - This option incorrectly includes "Vaginal packing can decrease the risk" and excludes a correct statement. - The identified microorganisms and role of retained products are correct, but vaginal packing is not a preventive measure for puerperal sepsis. *1, 2 and 4* - This option incorrectly includes "Vaginal packing can decrease the risk" and excludes a correct statement. - While multiple vaginal examinations and specific streptococcal species are correctly identified as risk factors or causes, vaginal packing is not a beneficial intervention.

Q: In non-lactating mothers, after delivery, ovulation

may occur as early as 2 weeks. ***may occur as early as 2 weeks*** - In non-lactating mothers, the **hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis** recovers relatively quickly after delivery because it is not suppressed by prolactin. - The earliest documented return of ovulation can be as soon as **2 weeks postpartum**, although 4-6 weeks is more common. *may occur as early as 4 weeks* - While 4 weeks is a common timeframe for ovulation to resume in non-lactating mothers, it is not the **earliest possible occurrence**. - This option misses the possibility of an even earlier return of **fertility**. *is unusual before 6 weeks* - This statement is incorrect as ovulation can, and frequently does, occur **before 6 weeks postpartum** in non-lactating women. - Delaying ovulation until 6 weeks is more typical in breast-feeding women due to **prolactin's inhibitory effect** on gonadotropin-releasing hormone. *may occur as early as 6 weeks* - Similar to the 4-week option, while ovulation can occur at 6 weeks, it is not the **earliest possible time point** for a non-lactating mother. - Assuming 6 weeks as the earliest timeframe could lead to an underestimation of the **risk of conception**.

Q: The causes for subinvolution of uterus are the following except:

Established breast feeding. ***Established breast feeding*** - **Breastfeeding** promotes the release of **oxytocin**, which aids in uterine contractions and thus helps the uterus return to its pre-pregnancy size and state, preventing subinvolution. - Therefore, it is a protective factor against subinvolution, not a cause. *Retained placental fragments* - **Retained placental tissue** prevents the uterus from contracting effectively, leading to continued bleeding and an enlarged, soft uterus. - This physical obstruction interferes with the normal process of **involution**. *Multiple pregnancy* - A uterus stretched significantly by a **multiple pregnancy** (e.g., twins or triplets) may have difficulty contracting efficiently after birth. - The increased uterine size and distension can impair the myometrial fibers' ability to involute properly. *Pelvic infection* - **Infection** within the uterus (e.g., **endometritis**) can interfere with uterine contractions and tissue repair. - The inflammatory process can delay or prevent the normal physiological reduction in uterine size, contributing to subinvolution.

Q: Predisposing factors of puerperal sepsis are following except:

Multiparity. ***Multiparity*** - **Multiparity**, defined as having given birth to more than one child, is generally considered a protective factor rather than a predisposing factor for puerperal sepsis. - While it was historically associated with some obstetric complications, modern evidence does not support it as a direct risk factor for puerperal sepsis. *Placenta previa* - **Placenta previa** increases the risk of hemorrhage and the need for interventions such as manual removal of the placenta or cesarean section, all of which elevate the risk of infection. - The abnormal placental implantation itself can lead to a more traumatic delivery and exposure to infection. *Cases of manual removal of placenta* - **Manual removal of the placenta** involves direct digital exploration of the uterine cavity, which introduces bacteria into a potentially sterile environment. - This procedure also causes trauma to the uterine lining, creating an entry point for infection. *Repeated internal examinations specially in the case of premature rupture of membrane* - **Repeated internal examinations**, especially after **premature rupture of membranes (PROM)**, repeatedly introduce microorganisms from the vagina into the sterile uterine cavity. - PROM itself removes the protective barrier against ascending infection, making frequent examinations particularly risky.

Q: A woman who is not breast feeding her newborn child is advised to use a contraceptive method by:

6th postpartum week. ***6th postpartum week*** - For non-breastfeeding women, the **uterus typically involutes** by 6 weeks, and ovulatory cycles can resume as early as 4-6 weeks postpartum. - Due to the rapid return to fertility and the completion of immediate postpartum healing, contraceptive methods are generally recommended around the **6-week postpartum check-up**. *3rd postpartum month* - This is generally considered **too late** for initiating contraception in non-breastfeeding women as fertility can return much earlier. - Waiting until 3 months significantly increases the risk of **unintended pregnancy** because ovulation often occurs before the first postpartum menses. *3rd postpartum week* - While some women may ovulate early, it's generally **too soon** to initiate most contraceptive methods due to ongoing uterine involution and the risk of postpartum complications. - The risk of **thrombosis** is still elevated in the immediate postpartum period, making certain hormonal contraceptives (e.g., estrogen-containing methods) contraindicated. *6th postpartum month* - Similar to the 3rd postpartum month, this is generally **too late** to initiate contraception for non-breastfeeding women. - Prolonged delay significantly increases the likelihood of **unintended conception** during this period.

Question 1

In the puerperium, which of the following hormonal changes are responsible for lactogenesis?

1. A sudden fall in the oestrogen levels after delivery
2. Reduction of prolactin inhibiting factor from the hypothalamus
3. Release of prolactin from the anterior pituitary
4. Release of oxytocin from the posterior pituitary
Select the correct answer using the code given below :

Accepted Answer

1, 2 and 3

Answer

1 and 2 only

Answer

1 and 4

Answer

2, 3 and 4

Question 2

A 32 year old woman is noted to have 1200 cc of blood loss following a spontaneous vaginal delivery and delivery of placenta. The uterine fundus is palpated and noted to be firm. Which of the following is the most likely treatment for this patient?

Accepted Answer

Surgical repair of cervical tear

Answer

Replacement of inverted uterus

Answer

Intramuscular prostaglandin

Answer

B-Lynch suture

Question 3

Most probable cause of heavy bleeding in a P2L2 during tenth day post partum is:

Accepted Answer

Retained bits of cotyledons and membranes

Answer

Infected episiotomy wound

Answer

Resumption of menstruation

Answer

Subinvolution of placental site

Question 4

During immediate puerperium,

Accepted Answer

the number of white cells increases

Answer

the number of lymphocytes increases

Answer

the number of white cells decreases

Answer

the number of eosinophils increases

Question 5

Which one of the following statements is NOT true regarding general physiological changes after delivery?

Accepted Answer

Cardiac output remains unchanged after delivery

Answer

Blood volume returns to normal by second week

Answer

Pulse may be raised on first day

Answer

Temperature should not be above 99°F

Question 6

Which of following statements regarding Puerperal sepsis are correct?

1. Multiple per vaginal examinations increase the risk
2. Group A and B beta-haemolytic Streptococcus are among the responsible microorganisms
3. Retained bits of placenta and membrane predispose
4. Vaginal packing can decrease the risk

Select the correct answer using the code given below:

Accepted Answer

1, 2 and 3

Answer

1, 3 and 4

Answer

2, 3 and 4

Answer

1, 2 and 4

Question 7

In non-lactating mothers, after delivery, ovulation

Accepted Answer

may occur as early as 2 weeks

Answer

may occur as early as 4 weeks

Answer

is unusual before 6 weeks

Answer

may occur as early as 6 weeks

Question 8

The causes for subinvolution of uterus are the following except:

Accepted Answer

Established breast feeding

Answer

Retained placental fragments

Answer

Multiple pregnancy

Answer

Pelvic infection

Question 9

Predisposing factors of puerperal sepsis are following except:

Accepted Answer

Multiparity

Answer

Placenta previa

Answer

Cases of manual removal of placenta

Answer

Repeated internal examinations specially in the case of premature rupture of membrane

Question 10

A woman who is not breast feeding her newborn child is advised to use a contraceptive method by:

Accepted Answer

6th postpartum week

Answer

3rd postpartum month

Answer

3rd postpartum week

Answer

6th postpartum month

Postpartum Care — MCQs

Postpartum Care — MCQs

On this page

Practice by Chapter

Want unlimited practice?