Page 275 - كتاب تمريض نسا الاكتروني

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9) Neurological function

 Discomfort and fatigue are common.

 Frontal and bilateral headaches are common and are

caused by fluid shifts in the first week postpartum.

10) Endocrine/Metabolic function:

 Thyroid levels are normal by 4 to 6 weeks postpartum.

 Glucose levels are low secondary to decreased human

placental lactogen and decreased growth hormone.

11) Body weight:

 Loss of weight is observed during the first l0 days

particularly in the non-lactating mothers. There is about

a 4 – 5 kg loss of body weight (sometimes 8 kg) due to

evacuation of uterine contents and diuresis.

12) Resumption of Ovulation and Menstruation:

 Most non-nursing mothers resume menstruation within

6 to 8 weeks after childbirth.

 In lactating mothers, menstruation usually reappears not

earlier then 3-4 months, and sometimes as late as 24

months.

 The first period is generally profuse and prolonged.

 It should be mentioned that ovulation can commence in
the absence of menstruation, and another pregnancy can

occur.

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