Spontaneous intra-partum rupture of uterine vein--an uncommon cause of intra-abdominal haemorrhage

Abstract

A rare case of spontaneous rupture of a branch of the uterine vein in a primigravida is discussed. The patient with an uncomplicated pregnancy presented with signs and symptoms suggestive of abruptio placenta with foetal distress. Lower segment Caesarean section was performed. The cause of acute pain was identified to be intra-abdominal bleeding secondary to the rupture of a branch of the uterine vein. The pathophysiology of the problem is discussed.