Nursing, Midwifery and Womens Health

Obstetric Emergencies

Obstetric emergencies are critical, potentially life-threatening situations that can occur during pregnancy, labor, or the immediate postpartum period. These emergencies require swift medical intervention to protect the health and well-being of both the mother and the baby. Prompt recognition and management of obstetric emergencies are essential for improving outcomes and preventing complications.

Common Types of Obstetric Emergencies:

Postpartum Hemorrhage (PPH)

• Definition: Excessive bleeding after childbirth, defined as a loss of more than 500 mL of blood after vaginal delivery or more than 1,000 mL after a cesarean section.
• Causes: Uterine atony, retained placenta, lacerations, and coagulation disorders.
• Management: Immediate steps include uterine massage, administration of uterotonic drugs (e.g., oxytocin), intravenous fluids, blood transfusions, and, if necessary, surgical intervention like a uterine artery ligation or hysterectomy.

Pre-eclampsia and Eclampsia

• Definition: Pre-eclampsia is characterized by high blood pressure and organ damage, often involving the kidneys and liver. Eclampsia includes seizures and is a severe progression of pre-eclampsia.
• Symptoms: Severe headaches, blurred vision, proteinuria, swelling, and seizures (in eclampsia).
• Management: The administration of antihypertensive medications, magnesium sulfate for seizure prevention, and timely delivery of the baby to prevent further complications.

Uterine Rupture

• Definition: A tear in the wall of the uterus, often occurring in women with previous cesarean deliveries or uterine surgery.
• Symptoms: Sudden sharp pain, loss of fetal heart rate, and signs of shock in the mother.
• Management: Immediate emergency surgery to repair the rupture and potentially a cesarean section to safely deliver the baby.

Placental Abruption

• Definition: The premature separation of the placenta from the uterine wall, which can cause severe bleeding and compromise oxygen and nutrient supply to the baby.
• Symptoms: Sudden, severe abdominal pain, bleeding, and uterine contractions.
• Management: Stabilization of the mother, monitoring of fetal heart rate, and potentially an emergency cesarean delivery if the baby’s well-being is at risk.

Placenta Previa

• Definition: A condition in which the placenta partially or completely covers the cervix, obstructing the birth canal.
• Symptoms: Painless, bright red vaginal bleeding, especially in the third trimester.
• Management: Hospitalization and close monitoring. Cesarean section is often required for delivery to prevent hemorrhage and ensure safety for both mother and baby.