How long may afterpains persist after delivery?

Afterpains, which are uterine contractions experienced after childbirth, typically occur as the uterus contracts to return to its pre-pregnancy size. These afterpains can last for a variable duration, often being more noticeable with subsequent pregnancies due to uterine muscle tone changes.

The correct choice of 2 to 3 days reflects the common clinical understanding that afterpains may persist for this period following delivery. While the intensity and duration can vary based on factors such as the individual’s pain threshold and whether they have had multiple pregnancies, most women report that the strongest sensations of afterpains occur in the first few days postpartum. After this initial period, the frequency and intensity tend to diminish significantly.

In contrast, other durations suggested in the options would either underestimate or overestimate the typical experience. For example, stating that afterpains last only 24 hours would not account for the normal persistence seen in many cases, while durations of 5 to 7 days may suggest ongoing pain that could indicate complications rather than typical afterpains. Thus, a duration of 2 to 3 days accurately encapsulates the typical timeframe for afterpains in postpartum recovery.