Placental stage (expulsion of the placenta). After delivery, the uterus continues to contract and shrink, causing the placenta to detach and be expelled.

• As the uterus decreases in size, the placenta detaches from the uterine wall, blood vessels are constricted, and bleeding slows. This can occur 5 to 30 minutes after the baby is delivered.

• A hematoma forms over the uterine placental site to prevent further significant blood loss; mild bleeding persists for 3 to 6 weeks after delivery.

Uterine involution. The uterus continues to contract and decrease in size for 3 to 6 weeks after delivery; the uterus always remains slightly enlarged over its prepregnant size.

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