Uterine rupture
Occurs in about 1 in 1,500 births (rare)
Viability of the fetus dependent on the extent of the rupture and the time that elapses between the rupture and abdominal extraction
Woman’s prognosis dependent on the extent of the rupture and blood loss (see Understanding a pathologic retraction ring, page 98)
Causes
Usually from a previous cesarean birth (such as when a vertical scar from a previous incision is present)
Hysterotomy repair
Prolonged labor
Faulty presentation
Multiple gestation
Use of oxytocin
Obstructed labor
Traumatic maneuvers using forceps or traction
