Uterine rupture as a source of obstetrical hemorrhage.

Uterine rupture is an important cause of obstetrical hemorrhage associated with morbidity for mother and fetus. Risk factors should be discussed in the counseling process. Intrapartum findings including maternal condition, fetal heart rate monitoring, and uterine activity may prove helpful in making the diagnosis of a dehiscence or rupture, but ultimately this requires some degree of suspicion by the labor and delivery team. As in any case of acute obstetrical emergency, preparation and timely mobilization of all necessary personnel is key to optimizing outcome.