Afterbirth refers to the tissues expelled from the uterus following childbirth, marking the third and final stage of labor. This includes the placenta, the amniotic sac, and the umbilical cord.
Visual Characteristics of Afterbirth
The afterbirth, primarily the placenta, is a disc-shaped organ. It measures approximately 15 to 22 centimeters (6 to 9 inches) in diameter and about 2 to 2.5 centimeters (0.8 to 1 inch) in thickness at its center. Its weight generally ranges around 500 to 600 grams (just over 1 pound).
The overall color of the afterbirth is often described as dark reddish-blue or crimson. Its texture can be spongy and fleshy, sometimes compared to the feel of a liver. While usually disc-shaped, variations can occur.
Key Components of Afterbirth
The placenta has two distinct sides: a maternal side and a fetal side. The maternal side, which was attached to the uterine wall, appears rough and lobed, with 15 to 20 divisions. This surface is typically dull, greyish-red.
The fetal side, in contrast, is smooth and glistening, covered by the amnion, a transparent membrane. Visible blood vessels spread out across this smooth surface from where the umbilical cord attaches. The umbilical cord itself is a flexible, tube-like structure, usually about 50 to 60 centimeters (20 to 24 inches) long and around 2 centimeters (0.79 inches) in diameter. It contains two umbilical arteries and one umbilical vein, embedded in a gelatinous substance known as Wharton’s jelly, which provides cushioning and protection.
The amniotic sac, also known as the “bag of waters,” is a thin, tough, and transparent pair of membranes that encased the fetus and amniotic fluid during pregnancy. These membranes often appear ragged or torn after delivery, having ruptured during labor. The inner layer, the amnion, directly surrounds the fetus, while the outer layer, the chorion, is part of the placenta.
What to Expect and When to Be Concerned
After the delivery of the afterbirth, it is normal to observe some variations. Small blood clots, generally no larger than a plum, can be passed. Minor tears in the membranes are also a common finding, as they typically rupture during the birthing process.
However, certain signs may indicate a need for medical evaluation. If large fragments of the placenta or membranes appear to be missing, or if the afterbirth has an unusual color, such as being pale or green, it requires medical attention. A foul odor from vaginal discharge after birth, or the presence of excessive bleeding, particularly if it soaks more than one sanitary pad per hour, also require immediate medical attention. Additionally, symptoms like fever, chills, or persistent abdominal pain could indicate an infection.