Imaging in the postpartum period

The postpartum period is characterised by significant physiological and anatomical changes that may mimic pathology on imaging. Exposure to puerperal imaging varies between healthcare systems and may depend on whether postnatal ultrasound is performed primarily by radiologists or obstetricians/gynaecologists. Differentiating normal postpartum appearances from true complications can therefore be challenging, particularly when clinical presentations are non-specific. This review summarises normal and abnormal postpartum imaging findings and describes a structured checklist to systematically evaluate the pelvic organs.