Postpartum obstetric complications: a guide for radiologists

The puerperium refers to the 6–8 weeks following delivery, and is a dynamic period in which maternal anatomy and physiology are restored to their prepregnant state. Postpartum complications can be divided into non-obstetric and obstetric. The latter are the topic of this article and can be further classified as infectious, thrombotic, hemorrhagic or cesarean-related. Transvaginal US is often the initial modality in the evaluation of puerperal disorders. CT is probably the most valuable imaging technique when life-threatening conditions are suspected. Pelvic MRI is being increasingly used in cases of inconclusive findings or if further characterization is needed, especially in the setting of postsurgical complications or placental disorders. Diagnostic and interventional radiologists play a pivotal role in the evaluation and management of a variety of puerperal complications. Many of these conditions pose a diagnostic challenge, as imaging findings often overlap with normal postpartum changes, so keeping in mind the patient’s clinical information is key.