Contents
What is the purpose of uterine revision?
It makes it possible to verify that the expulsion of the placenta has taken place completely and that the uterine cavity is intact and empty of any placental element, membrane or blood clots.
When is uterine revision done?
The doctor (or midwife) performs this maneuver if excessive bleeding occurs after delivery or if the examination of the placenta shows that one of its pieces is missing. Placental debris left in the uterus can cause uterine infection or atony (the uterus does not retract properly). This latter situation prevents the blood vessels in the placenta from closing.
The danger ? Blood loss. More rarely, this technique can be used to check the uterine scar when a mother has previously given birth by cesarean section and the current birth is taking place naturally.
Uterine revision: how does it work in practice?
This maneuver is carried out manually without an instrument. After disinfecting the vaginal area to avoid any risk of infection, the doctor puts on sterile gloves and then gently introduces a hand into the vagina. Then, it goes up into the uterus in search of a small piece of placenta. The inspection finished, he withdraws his hand and injects the mother with a product to allow the uterus to retract well. The duration of this act is short, no more than 5 minutes.
Is uterine revision painful?
Rest assured, you won’t feel a thing! Uterine revision takes place under anesthesia. Either under epidural, if you had benefited from it during childbirth, or under general anesthesia.
Is uterine revision painful?
Rest assured, you won’t feel a thing! Uterine revision takes place under anesthesia. Either under epidural, if you had benefited from it during childbirth, or under general anesthesia.
Uterine revision: and after, what happens?
Monitoring is then necessary. The midwife keeps you under observation to check that your uterus is retracting well and that you are not bleeding more than normal. If all goes well you will return to your room a few hours later. Some teams prescribe antibiotic treatment for a few days to prevent any risk of infection.