Why Mothers Die

Question 1

Placenta previa

Answer 1

Placenta implanted over the internal cervical os
Ultrasound diagnosis
Painless vaginal bleeding
Bleeding may occur spontaneously, with contractions, or with vaginal exams or intercourse
C-section delivery
Increased risk of PPH because lower uterine segment does not contract as well

Question 2

Abruption

Answer 2

Premature separation of the placenta
Painful bleeding
Clinical diagnosis (rare to see on ultrasound)
May occur spontaneously or with contractions
Management depends on gestational age and extent of abruption

Question 3

Vasa previa

Answer 3

Free fetal vessels coursing over the internal os
US diagnosis
Often small volume painless vaginal bleeding (fetal blood)

Question 4

4 T’s of PPH

Answer 4

Tone
Tissue
Trauma
Thrombin

Question 5

What is the biggest risk factor for maternal mortality?

Answer 5

Where on earth you live

Question 6

What is the leading cause of indirect maternal death?

Answer 6

Cardiac disease