Abstract

A number of various imaging modalities are currently available for the assessment of the postpartum uterus and have a significant role to play in the evaluation of symptomatic puerperal women. Although magnetic resonance imaging and computed tomography have become more readily obtainable in recent times, ultrasound scanning is often the imaging modality of choice for excluding retained placental tissue and other postpartum pathology. The correct application of postpartum imaging could enable more accurate identification of women requiring surgical intervention, with consequent reduction in patient morbidity, radiation exposure, clinical workload and cost. In this article the current understanding and application of imaging modalities during the puerperium, in particular ultrasound, is reviewed. Furthermore, the existing evidence investigating the physiological and pathological findings of the postpartum uterus and its contents is explored.