Manual placenta removal carries several risks for the patient. These risks primarily involve complications arising from the procedure itself and the body's response to it.
Here's a breakdown of the potential risks:
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Late Postpartum Hemorrhage (PPH): One of the significant risks is delayed or late postpartum hemorrhage.
- This means excessive bleeding that occurs after the initial 24 hours following delivery.
- While uterotonic agents (medications to contract the uterus) are typically given after placental removal to minimize bleeding, they might not always be fully effective.
- In severe cases of resulting hemorrhage, an emergency hysterectomy (surgical removal of the uterus) might be necessary.
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Infection: Any manual intervention within the uterus increases the risk of infection.
- The disruption of the natural barriers and potential introduction of bacteria can lead to endometritis (infection of the uterine lining) or other pelvic infections.
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Genital Tract Trauma: Manual removal can cause injury to the uterus, cervix, or vagina.
- This trauma can range from minor lacerations to more significant tears or even uterine rupture in rare cases.
In summary, manual removal of the placenta carries risks, including late PPH, infection, and genital tract trauma. Careful monitoring and prompt management are vital in mitigating these potential complications.
