Uterine Arteriovenous Malformation: A Rare Cause of Postpartum Hemorrhage

Lina Ahmad Omar Alhaj1, Shadan Ahmed Falih Al-Tameemi1, Tania El Hamarneh1

  • 1Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Danat Al Emarat Hospital, Abu Dhabi, ARE.

Cureus
|February 11, 2025
PubMed

Uterine arteriovenous malformation (AVM) is a rare but serious cause of secondary postpartum hemorrhage (PPH). Although its overall prevalence in the general population remains uncertain, uterine AVM is recognized as an underdiagnosed condition due to its nonspecific symptoms and variable presentation. It poses significant diagnostic and therapeutic challenges, especially when presenting in the delayed postpartum period. Uterine AVM can be acquired following uterine instrumentation or trauma, leading to abnormal vascular connections within the uterine wall. This study describes a unique instance of uterine AVM identified after a cesarean section in a patient with an in vitro fertilization (IVF)-conceived pregnancy, highlighting the potential implications of assisted reproductive techniques on uterine vascular remodeling. Early recognition and multidisciplinary management ensured successful treatment, preserving the patient's fertility and preventing severe complications.

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