Afterbirth

Afterbirth is the placenta and fetal membranes that are expelled from the uterus after the birth of the infant. The placenta is an organ that nourished the fetus during pregnancy; after birth, the detachment and expulsion of the placenta and membranes mark the end of the placenta’s role in gestation.

Timing and process: The expulsion of the afterbirth occurs during the third stage of labor, typically within a few minutes to about 30 minutes after the baby is born. The placenta detaches from the uterine wall and is forced out through the birth canal by uterine contractions. In many settings, active management of the third stage of labor is used, which may include the administration of a uterotonic drug to promote contraction and controlled cord traction to facilitate delivery of the afterbirth, aiming to reduce the risk of postpartum hemorrhage.

Composition: The afterbirth consists of the placenta along with the fetal membranes (the amnion and chorion). The umbilical cord is associated with the baby at birth and is usually clamped and cut before the placenta is delivered.

Complications: Retained placenta, where the afterbirth does not deliver within about 30 minutes, can lead to heavy bleeding and infection. Abnormal placentation (such as placenta accreta, increta, or percreta) can complicate delivery and may require manual removal, surgical intervention, or additional therapies to control blood loss. Proper management of the third stage of labor reduces the risk of postpartum hemorrhage and other complications.

Etymology and usage: The term “afterbirth” is commonly used in obstetrics to refer to the placenta and fetal membranes following birth.