“Obstetric Shock” and “Shock in Obstetrics”

Abstract

Why do some women bleed uncontrollably during or after amniotic fluid embolism, abruptio placentae or other uteroplacental accidents? With amniotic fluid embolism, “obstetric shock,” rather than incoagulability of blood, is the primary problem. Abruptio placentae rarely produces fatal shock, but may lead to fibrinogenopenia. With “shock in obstetrics,” or hypovolemic shock, hypovolemia itself may lead to defibrination.