Hemoperitoneum in peripartum: A case-series.

Area of Science:

• Obstetrics and Gynecology
• Trauma Surgery
• Maternal-Fetal Medicine

Background:

• Hemorrhages are the primary cause of perinatal mortality in French women.
• A significant portion of these deaths are attributed to hemoperitoneum, often unrelated to direct obstetrical complications.
• Under-diagnosis of hemoperitoneum leads to delayed treatment and increased fetal and maternal mortality.

Observation:

• Three cases of pregnant women in their third trimester presenting with hemoperitoneum are detailed.
• These cases, despite non-problematic pregnancies, resulted in varied outcomes.
• Clinical presentation includes abdominal pain, shock symptoms, and decreased hemoglobin levels.

Findings:

• Hemoperitoneum in pregnancy is often under-diagnosed, complicating timely management.
• A combination of abdominal pain, shock, and falling hemoglobin suggests hemoperitoneum.
• Immediate response, intensive care, and hemostatic surgery are vital for survival.

Implications:

• Consider hemoperitoneum in pregnant patients with suggestive symptoms.
• Prompt diagnosis and aggressive management can significantly improve outcomes.
• Further research into early detection and treatment protocols for pregnancy-related hemoperitoneum is warranted.