APH, or Antepartum Hemorrhage, is defined as bleeding from or into the genital tract occurring from 24 weeks of pregnancy up to the birth of the baby.
Understanding Antepartum Hemorrhage (APH)
APH is a serious condition in pregnancy that requires prompt medical attention. It's essential to understand its causes, potential risks, and management strategies.
Key Aspects of APH
- Definition: Bleeding from or into the genital tract after 24 weeks gestation but before delivery.
- Significance: APH can be an indicator of underlying complications affecting the mother and the baby.
- Common Causes: The most significant causes are placenta praevia (when the placenta covers the cervix) and placental abruption (when the placenta detaches from the uterine wall). However, these are not the most common causes overall.
- Other Potential Causes: These can include cervical lesions, infections, or unexplained bleeding.
- Risks: Premature delivery, fetal distress, maternal shock, and even fetal or maternal death are potential risks associated with APH.
- Management: Management depends on the cause, gestation age, and the severity of the bleeding. It may include observation, medication, or immediate delivery (often by Cesarean section).
Less Common, but Possible, Causes of APH:
- Cervical ectropion (erosion)
- Vaginal or cervical infection
- Cervical polyps or cancer
- Vasa praevia (fetal vessels crossing the cervix)
- Unexplained APH
Importance of Seeking Medical Attention
Any vaginal bleeding during the second half of pregnancy should be promptly evaluated by a healthcare professional. Early diagnosis and management can significantly improve outcomes for both the mother and the baby.
In summary, Antepartum Hemorrhage is bleeding during pregnancy from 24 weeks onwards until delivery, potentially caused by various factors with placenta praevia and placental abruption being the most serious.
