Uterine Rupture During Labor

Uterine rupture is known to be one of the most dangerous complications that could spell death for both the mother and her child. There have been previous posts and discussions on blogs regarding the causes of uterine rupture; however, we wish to provide you with what we have collated from both the readers and specialists regarding this topic.

Although uterine rupture is a fatal complication, it is said to be uncommon. However, there are certain predisposing factors that could increase the chances of uterine rupture during labor. When uterine rupture occurs, other than possible death of the mother and child, they mother will have to undergo hysterectomy (surgical removal of the uterus) because occurrence of another pregnancy will surely be fatal already. This is also why mothers who have undergone C section are advised to undergo the same procedure up to a maximum of 3 only. The uterine wall will be too weak to endure the amount of stress and strain of succeeding deliveries.

Previous C section is not the only predisposing factor seen to have a large effect on causing uterine rupture. Even multiple pregnancies have been seen to have a great influence on increasing the chances of uterine rupture. This is why women are being assessed before delivery as to the number of previous deliveries that she had already gone through. This will prepare the medical team on how to work on ensuring a safe delivery for the mother. Therefore, make sure to provide accurate information during your initial interview or assessment regarding this information. It would be best to have your private doctor present during your admission and delivery so you can be provided with thorough care.

Good if the uterine rupture could be intervened right away because both the mother’s and baby’s life could be saved, but the mother will have to undergo blood transfusion to replace the blood loss due to profuse bleeding. Taking your chances on uterine rupture can lead to hypoxia for your baby. This will have a great effect on the mental capability of your baby. Others have been found to have mental lags when they grow older compared to other children who did not go through such a problem during labor.

Uterine rupture is not only something to be worried about before and during labor. Some mothers would have that feeling of relief after giving birth. However, there have also been a number of cases of uterine rupture occurring after labor. This is why the mother has to be given adequate rest and avoid too much pressure on her abdominal muscles after labor. Although early ambulation is advised to facilitate faster recovery for the mother, she has to be assisted when shifting from a lying position to a sitting position. Even when the mother sneezes or coughs, it would be best to apply a supportive/opposite pressure on her abdomen to counteract the outward push of the abdominal pressure on the uterine wall.