ANTEPARTUM HAEMORRHAGE Flashcards
What is antepartum haemorrhage?
Antepartum haemorrhage is bleeding from the genital tract after 24 weeks of pregnancy, prior to delivery of the fetus.
How is antepartum haemorrhage defined in terms of pregnancy weeks?
Antepartum haemorrhage is defined as bleeding from the genital tract after 24 weeks of pregnancy.
What are the key features of placental abruption?
Key features of placental abruption include shock out of keeping with visible loss, constant pain, tender and tense uterus, normal lie and presentation, absent or distressed fetal heart, and coagulation problems.
What are the key features of placenta praevia?
Key features of placenta praevia include shock in proportion to visible loss, no pain, non-tender uterus, abnormal lie and presentation, usually normal fetal heart, rare coagulation problems, and small bleeds before large.
How does shock differ between placental abruption and placenta praevia?
In placental abruption, shock is out of keeping with visible loss, while in placenta praevia, shock is in proportion to visible loss.
What is the nature of pain in placental abruption compared to placenta praevia?
Pain in placental abruption is constant, whereas there is no pain in placenta praevia.
What is the condition of the uterus in placental abruption compared to placenta praevia?
The uterus is tender and tense in placental abruption but not tender in placenta praevia.
How does fetal heart presentation differ between placental abruption and placenta praevia?
In placental abruption, the fetal heart may be absent or distressed, while in placenta praevia, the fetal heart is usually normal.
Are coagulation problems common in placental abruption or placenta praevia?
Coagulation problems are common in placental abruption but rare in placenta praevia.
What other conditions should be considered with placental abruption?
Other conditions to consider with placental abruption include pre-eclampsia, DIC, and anuria.
Why should vaginal examination not be performed in primary care for suspected antepartum haemorrhage?
Vaginal examination should not be performed in primary care for suspected antepartum haemorrhage because women with placenta praevia may haemorrhage.
