Home > Encyclopedia of Medicine > Obstetrical Emergencies

Definition

Obstetrical emergencies are life-threatening medical conditions that occur in pregnancy or during or after labor and delivery.

Description

There are a number of illnesses and disorders of pregnancy that can threaten the well-being of both mother and child. Obstetrical emergencies may also occur during active labor, and after delivery (postpartum).

Obstetrical emergencies of pregnancy

ECTOPIC PREGNANCY. An ectopic, or tubal, pregnancy occurs when the fertilized egg implants itself in the fallopian tube rather than the uterine wall. If the pregnancy is not terminated at an early stage, the fallopian tube will rupture, causing internal hemorrhaging and potentially resulting in permanent infertility.

PLACENTAL ABRUPTION. Also called...