What are the three stages of uterine involution?

Uterine involution refers to the process by which the uterus returns to its pre-pregnancy size and condition following childbirth. This occurs through a series of physiological changes that are essential for the woman's recovery and to ensure optimal reproductive health.

The stages of uterine involution primarily involve ischaemia, autolysis, and phagocytosis.

• Ischaemia is the first stage where the blood supply to the uterus decreases, largely due to the constriction of blood vessels and the detachment of the placenta, leading to a reduction in the uterine size. This process is vital as it triggers the body to start the involution process actively.

• Autolysis follows, which is the process where the uterine cells begin to break down. This occurs naturally due to the lack of blood flow and the hormonal changes post-delivery. Autolysis assists in the removal of the excess tissue that is no longer needed after childbirth.

• Phagocytosis involves the action of immune cells, such as macrophages, that consume and remove cellular debris and dead cells resulting from the autolytic process. This stage is crucial for cleaning up the uterine tissue and inflammation that may have resulted from the earlier stages.

Each of these stages