[Idiopathic hemoperitoneum in young women]

We present three cases of idiopathic hemoperitoneum or abdominal apoplexy in young women. At laparotomy a large quantity of blood was found in the abdomen in each patient, but active bleeding had stopped and the site of its origin was not established. A well-developed corpus luteum which was intact was found, of pregnancy in one case and of the progestationl phase in the two others. In all three cases the abdomen was closed without hemostasis being carried out. Recovery was rapid but the young woman who was pregnant aborted later. Etiology and the relationship of this syndrome with the state of pregnancy or the progestational phase are discussed as well as prognosis and the management.