Immediately after delivery, the fundus is palpated at what location?

• A. In the pelvic cavity
• B. 2 cm above the umbilicus
• C. At the level of the umbilicus
• D. Midway between the symphysis pubis and the umbilicus

Answer: (D)

Postpartum fundal height reflects involution—the uterus shrinking and moving back down into the pelvis after birth. Immediately after delivery, the uterus is a firm, midline mass that you can feel as being located between the pubic symphysis and the umbilicus. This position shows the uterus has just begun its ascent from the birth canal area into the upper abdomen as involution starts. Over the next hours and days it rises to the level of the umbilicus and then descends about 1 cm each day as it returns toward pre-pregnant size. If the fundus is higher or lower than expected, it prompts checks for factors like bladder distension or potential postpartum hemorrhage, but the initial, expected placement right after delivery is midway between the pubic symphysis and the umbilicus.