Hemorrhages of Late Pregnancy

Abstract

Rupture of the marginal sinus is the outstanding cause of bleeding at all stages of pregnancy, particularly in the first trimester when this fragile channel is especially susceptible to breakthrough.

A description of the placental circulation is presented to explain the mechanism of bleeding. Diagnosis and principles of treatment of various conditions giving rise to hemorrhage are emphasized, including marginate placenta, circumvallate placenta, placenta praevia and abruptio placentae.