ANTEPARTUM HEMORRHAGE (APH)

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Let's do a little bit of obstetrics this morning.
So we will be talking about a case called ANTEPARTUM HEMORRHAGE (APH)
APH is bleeding from the genital tract after 24th week of pregnancy, and before the onset of labour.
*which is caused by;

1. Placenta praevia (31%)- in this condition the placenta is partially or wholly implanted in the lower uterine segment.

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1. Placental abruption (22%)- premature separation of a normally situated placenta occurring after 24th week of cyesis.

3.unclassified bleeding:
Of which-
a. Marginal (60%)
b. Show (20%)
c. Cervicitis (8%)
d. Trauma (5%)
e. Vulvovaginal varicosities (2%)
f. Genital tumours (0.5%)
g. Genital infection (0.5%)
h. Haematuria (0.5%)
I. Vasa praevia (0.5%)
j. Other (0.5%)

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EFFECT ON THE MOTHER
A small amount of bleeding will not physically affect the woman (unless she is already severely anaemic) but it is likely to cause her anxiety. In cases of heavier bleeding, this may be accompanied by medical shock and blood clotting disorders.

EFFECT ON THE FETUS
Fetal mortality and morbidity are increased as a result of severe vaginal bleeding in pregnancy. Stillbirth or neonatal death may occur. Premature placental separation and consequent hypoxia may result in severe neurological damage in baby.