What is the typical outcome of fundal height decrease in the postpartum period?

The typical outcome of fundal height decrease in the postpartum period involves a steady reduction in size until the fundus is no longer palpable. After childbirth, the uterus begins to involute or shrink, which leads to a decrease in fundal height. This process generally follows a predictable pattern where the fundus descends approximately one centimeter per day. By about ten days postpartum, in a normal recovery, the uterus usually has returned to a position where it can no longer be felt through the abdomen.

This gradual decrease is an important aspect of postpartum recovery and indicates that the uterus is returning to its pre-pregnancy size. Monitoring fundal height is essential for evaluating uterine involution and ensuring there are no complications, such as retained placental fragments, which could hinder this process.

The other options misrepresent the expected changes in fundal height postpartum. Fundal height should not increase after ten days, nor will it remain at the same level; therefore, these scenarios do not align with the physiological process of uterine involution. An increase in fundal height after delivery is also not typical as it would suggest a potential complication rather than the normal healing process.