RESUMEN
To describe the ultrasonographic features of the uterus and uterine cavity within the first 24 hours following vaginal delivery, and to correlate it with postnatal maternal morbidities, if any. this was a prospective, descriptive, observational study. Postpartum women were scanned by transabdominal ultrasound within 24 hours after vaginal delivery. The women were divided into 2 groups according to the presence of predefined risk factor[s]. Uterine length, AP, uterine width, volume, endometrial stripe thickness and endometrial contents were evaluated. They were interviewed by telephone after 2 weeks. Results expressed as range and mean with standard deviations [SD] and compared using independent-samples were t-test. Categorical data were presented as numbers and percentages and compared by Chi-square test. Statistical significance was considered at a p<0.05. The postpartum uterus normally appears enlarged, has an angulated form and lies in a retroverted position. The myometrium is found to have a heterogeneous echo appearance. A mixed echo pattern with fluid and solid components was seen in the cervical area. In the majority of cases the upper uterine segment is empty. The mean uterine length was 18.8cm for both low-risk and high-risk groups. Similarly, the mean AP, width, volume and endometrial thickness did not differ significantly between the two groups. All uterine dimensions were significantly larger in multiparous women. Neither endometrial stripe thickness nor the sonographic presence of echogenic material in the uterine cavity can be used to predict clinically significant postpartum complications; and the presence of risk factors were found to increase the probability of puerperal uterine complications. The uterine body and position, as well as the cavity, are easy to examine by ultrasound. Accumulation of fluid and debris in the cervical area in the early puerperium is a common and insignificant finding of the uterus. The presence of risk factor [s] were found to increase the probability oj puerperal uterine complications