WeMoms
2 Apr 2024

Uterine Rupture: What are the Risks and Signs?

Pregnancy
Pregnancy follow-up
Uterine Rupture: What are the Risks and Signs?
One of those rare but serious conditions you might've heard of is Uterine Rupture.
Before you freak out, understand that it's extremely rare but knowing the signs can be a real lifesaver.
  • What is it?: A tear in the uterine wall
  • Who's at risk?: Mostly women who have had previous C-sections or uterine surgery
  • How common is it?: Occurs in 1 out of 1,000 to 1 out of 1,500 pregnancies
Spotting the Risk Factors
The first step in staying ahead is recognizing your own risk factors.
This doesn't mean you'll experience a uterine rupture, but awareness is your first line of defense.
Ladies who've had a prior C-section, pay special attention!
You’re at a higher risk, especially if labor is induced or augmented. Other factors include:
  • Multiple previous uterine surgeries: Includes myomectomies or removal of fibroids
  • High parity: Having had five or more previous vaginal deliveries
  • Advanced maternal age: Moms who are 35 or older
  • Use of certain medications: Such as prostaglandins or Pitocin for labor induction
  • Trauma: Accidents or injuries to the abdomen area
  • Malpresentation: If baby is in a breech or transverse position
Signs to Watch For
So, what does a uterine rupture feel like?
The symptoms can sometimes be confused with normal labor pains, which is why it's vital to know the distinct signs:
  • Sudden, sharp pain between contractions
  • Changes in your baby’s heart rate: This could appear on a fetal monitor
  • Slowed labor progress: If contractions suddenly seem less effective
  • Abdominal bulging: A protrusion or lump in the abdominal area
  • Hemorrhaging: Vaginal bleeding that’s different from normal labor bleeding
  • Shock symptoms: Pale skin, rapid heartbeat, or a drop in blood pressure
If you notice any of these signs, it's crucial to contact your healthcare provider immediately or head straight to the emergency room.
The Proactive Approach
You’re probably thinking, “Okay, now what can I do to prevent this?”
While uterine rupture is largely unpredictable, there are preventive steps you can take:
  • Consult with your doctor: Discuss your personal risk factors and any concerns during your prenatal visits
  • Make a birth plan: Include contingencies for emergency situations
  • Regular Monitoring: Stick to your schedule of ultrasounds and fetal heart monitoring
  • Be Medication-Smart: If medications are suggested for labor induction, ask about the risks involved
  • Stay Informed: Knowledge is power, so read up on reliable sources and keep up with your pregnancy education
  • Trust your body: Listen to your body’s signals and don’t hesitate to seek medical attention if something feels off
So, there you have it, savvy mamas! While the odds are in your favor that you’ll never have to deal with uterine rupture, it never hurts to be prepared and informed.
A
Avionne
17 Jan 2024

OK question mamas have any of you had a vaginal birth then a csection and had another csection ?I'm so nervous with uterine rupture.

Pregnancy Pregnancy follow-up
1 comments
B
Bori
I’ve had one vaginal and 3 c-sections I’m going to have a 4 c-section.
27 Mar 2024

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Sydney Rivers&Roman M
27 Jan 2023

Okay so MOMS ! Have anyone had a C-section and then decided to have a vaginal birth for your 2nd pregnancy? If so ! How did it go ??? Did everything turn out okay ?? I know there are some risks to doing this ... However my first pregnancy was supposed to be vaginal birth but his heart rate was acting up so they did an emergency C-section on me and I want to have this one vaginally with an epidural... I know there is a chance the scar could rip open and also a VERY VERY VERY SMALL 1 PERCENT CHANCE OF UTERINE RUPTURE ... SO I DON'T KNOW WHAT U SHOULD DO UGH... I'm thinking I should just trust GOD and have him vaginally... And pray that everything goes okay ... Do y'all have any experience, strength, or hope on this ??? #vaginalbirth vs. #C-sectionbirth

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4 comments
B
Blocked user
Girl you have a 99 percent chance you won't rupture and there are many more risks that come with repeat c section. I fought hard against scare tactics etc and vaginal checks. Got my vba3c. 😍😍😍
27 Mar 2024

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Sydney Rivers&Roman Mommy
Omg did you really? How did it go ? Was it so different... Was it harder ? Were u scared ?
27 Mar 2024

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B
Blocked user
23 Jul 2022

So glad I found this before sharing the pitocin uterine rupture story. Breech is a nornal way to deliver. What's not normative is they'd rather cut a bitch open that perfecting their craft

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