[Massive fetomaternal hemorrhage revealed by decreased perception of active fetal movements]

C Rubod1, N Mubiayi, F Le Goueff

  • 1Clinique de Gynécologie Obstétrique et Néonatologie, Pavillon Paul Gellé, Centre Hospitalier, 91 avenue Julien-Lagache, 59100 Roubaix, France.

Massive fetomaternal hemorrhage is rare. Without risk factors, early diagnosis is difficult to establish. The clinical and paraclinical manifestations are not specific and depend on fetal compensatory reactions; the Kleihauer test will confirm the diagnosis. Two cases of massive fetomaternal hemorrhage preceded by decreased fetal movements are presented here. An emergency delivery by cesarean section saved one child. Despite a favorable clinical and laboratory evaluation, one fetal death could not be avoided. Early diagnosis and specialised management are essential to improve prognosis. These observations indicate that it is mandatory to carry out a Kleihauer test whenever a decrease of fetal movements is observed.