Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 22, 2026
07:28
Controlled Cervical Laceration Injury in Mice
Published on: May 9, 2013
16.6K
Cervical Lacerations: A Review of Risks
Susan Salazar1, Kaitlyn Grayson1, Harris Tsamolias1
1University of South Florida Family Practice Residency Program, Clearwater, Florida, United States.
Journal of Midwifery & Women'S Health
|December 5, 2023
Summary
Cervical lacerations (CL) are a rare but serious complication of vaginal birth, potentially causing significant postpartum hemorrhage. Early recognition and management are crucial despite infrequent occurrence.
Area of Science:
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Maternal-Fetal Medicine
Background:
- Cervical laceration (CL) is an infrequent complication of vaginal birth.
- It can lead to significant immediate postpartum hemorrhage (PPH).
- The incidence of clinically significant CL is estimated between 0.14% and 0.2% of births.
Observation:
- Risk factors for CL include nulliparity, operative vaginal birth, fetal occiput posterior position, labor induction, and episiotomy.
- Existing literature on CL is often dated or anecdotal, with inconsistent risk associations.
- CL should be considered in cases of immediate PPH with difficult hemostasis.
Findings:
- Low incidence may contribute to delayed diagnosis and management, despite midwifery training.
- This case highlights a composite scenario of PPH due to CL.
- Discussion includes risk factors, diagnosis, and midwifery management strategies.
Implications:
- Emphasizes the need for heightened clinical suspicion for CL in PPH.
- Highlights the importance of timely diagnosis and appropriate management by healthcare providers.
- Suggests a review of current training and diagnostic protocols for CL in obstetrics.
