Postvoid residual bladder volume after uncomplicated vaginal delivery

Abstract

Objective To create a reference curve for postvoid residual volume (PVRV) in asymptomatic postpartum women who are at low risk of developing postpartum urinary retention (PUR), a well‐known complication in the immediate postpartum period. Methods This is a prospective observational study measuring PVRV after uncomplicated vaginal delivery. PVRV was assessed by transabdominal ultrasound using a portable ultrasound scanner within the first 26 h after delivery (PVRV 1) and on the day of discharge (day 2 or 3 postpartum) (PVRV 2). A PVRV of 150 mL or more was defined as the cut‐off value for covert PUR. Results The prevalence of covert PUR was 7.1%. Primiparity, duration of second stage, and obstetric injury were correlated with higher PVRV 1. The median PVRV 1 was 21 mL and PVRV 2 was 11 mL. The subgroup of nulliparous women had a significantly higher PVRV 1 compared with multiparous women. At discharge, the majority (99.1%) of women had a PVRV of less than 150 mL. Conclusion Asymptomatic women were at low risk of developing PUR. However, women with a prolonged second stage may benefit from a routine postpartum assessment. Our results allow for a better understanding of PVRV in the early postpartum period.

Voiding Dysfunction between Women Following Vaginal Vs Cesarean Section Delivery: A Comparative Study

“…This finding was supported by a study by Saraswathi et al (2019) who studied" Postpartum voiding dysfunction in vaginal delivery: Identify the Risk Factors " voiding problems could be attributed to urinary tract infection and pain. On the other hand, this finding contradicted with Degasper et al, (2023) who studied "Post void residual bladder volume after uncomplicated vaginal delivery". They found that longer duration of labor was the major risk factor.…”