By what time after delivery does the uterus normally become a pelvic organ, that is, no longer palpable on abdominal examination?
- A 48 hours
- B End of second week ✓
- C End of first week
- D End of sixth week
Correct answer: B. End of second week
Explanation
The fundal height falls about 1 cm per day from the level of the umbilicus immediately after delivery. By the end of the second week the uterus has descended below the brim of the pelvis and is no longer palpable abdominally. Complete anatomical restoration to the nonpregnant size and weight of about 60 to 100 g takes 6 to 8 weeks, which is why option D is tempting but describes total involution, not abdominal palpability.
Reference: DC Dutta's Textbook of Obstetrics, 9th ed.
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