Uterus ultrasound after birth
postpartum ultrasound · ultrasound after C-section · follow-up uterus ultrasound
This ultrasound shows how the uterus is shrinking back after birth and whether anything is left inside.
Before going home from the maternity hospital, after a C-section, or if pain, fever, or heavy bleeding bother you after birth.
⏱ Duration: usually 10 to 20 minutes; the result is given right away
Be sure to tell your doctor
How to prepare
- Bladder. For an ultrasound through the belly, you may be asked to fill your bladder a little. Check with the clinic.
- Clothing. Comfortable clothes and a spare pad.
What to bring
- Your hospital discharge summary
- A pad
- A disposable sheet
- Your ID
How it goes
- You lie on the exam table
- The doctor looks at the uterus with a probe on your belly
- Sometimes a probe inside the vagina is also used
- The doctor measures the uterus and checks inside it
- The gel is wiped off, and you are told the result
What you'll feel
- It usually does not hurt
- After a C-section, pressure from the probe near the scar can be unpleasant
Afterwards
- You are told the result right away
- Bleeding after birth usually lasts up to 6 weeks and slowly gets lighter
- If something is found, the doctor will tell you what to do next
Contact a doctor straight away if
- A temperature above 38°C (100.4°F)
- Heavy bleeding: a pad is fully soaked within an hour
- Bad-smelling discharge or severe lower belly pain
Common questions
Can I have an ultrasound while breastfeeding?
Yes. Ultrasound does not affect breastfeeding.
Why an ultrasound if I feel fine?
Sometimes problems show up before you notice symptoms. Your doctor decides if you need it.