4. Multiple Pregnancy
Definition: Pregnancy in which more than one fetus develops simultaneously in the uterus.
Types:
o Dizygotic (Fraternal): Fertilization of two separate ova by two sperm.
o Monozygotic (Identical): Division of single fertilized ovum into two embryos.
Risk factors: Family history of twins, advanced maternal age, use of fertility drugs/assisted reproductive technology, multiparity.
Complications:
o Maternal: Hyperemesis gravidarum, anemia, preeclampsia, preterm labor, polyhydramnios, postpartum hemorrhage.
o Fetal: Prematurity, growth restriction, congenital anomalies, twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS).
Diagnosis: Ultrasound, clinical signs (large uterine size, palpation of multiple fetal poles, multiple fetal heart sounds).
Management:
o Regular antenatal care and ultrasound monitoring.
o Iron, folic acid, nutritional support.
o Hospital delivery with facilities for cesarean section and NICU
5. Puerperal Sepsis
Definition: Infection of the genital tract occurring at any time between rupture of membranes or labor and the 42nd day postpartum,
characterized by fever, pelvic pain, abnormal vaginal discharge, and delayed involution of the uterus.
Causative organisms: Streptococcus, Staphylococcus, E. coli, anaerobes.
Risk factors: Prolonged labor, premature rupture of membranes, frequent vaginal examinations, poor aseptic technique, cesarean
delivery.
Clinical features:
o Fever (>38°C) within 10 days postpartum.
o Offensive, purulent lochia.
o Lower abdominal pain, uterine tenderness.
o Tachycardia, malaise, septicemia in severe cases.
Complications: Septicemia, peritonitis, septic shock, infertility, maternal death.
Prevention:
o Strict aseptic technique in labor and delivery.
o Prophylactic antibiotics in high-risk cases.
o Proper perineal hygiene.
Management:
o Broad-spectrum IV antibiotics.
o Drainage of abscess if present.
o Fluid replacement and supportive care.
o Removal of retained products if any.
1-Fetal Circulation
Definition: The system of blood circulation in the fetus that allows oxygen and nutrients from the placenta to reach the fetus while
bypassing the lungs (which are non-functional before birth).
Key Features:
o Placenta: Site of gas exchange.
o Umbilical vein: Carries oxygenated blood from placenta to fetus.
o Ductus venosus: Shunts blood from umbilical vein to inferior vena cava (bypasses liver).
o Foramen ovale: Opening between right and left atria, allowing blood to bypass lungs.
o Ductus arteriosus: Connects pulmonary artery to descending aorta (bypasses pulmonary circulation).
o Umbilical arteries: Carry deoxygenated blood from fetus back to placenta.
Circulatory Pathway:
Placenta → Umbilical vein → Ductus venosus → Inferior vena cava → Right atrium → Foramen ovale → Left atrium → Left
ventricle → Aorta → Body → Umbilical arteries → Placenta.
At Birth: Umbilical cord is clamped → lungs expand → shunts close → normal postnatal circulation begins.
2. Breast Complications in Puerperium
Engorgement:
o Swelling, heaviness, pain due to milk accumulation.
o Management: Frequent breastfeeding, breast support, warm compress before feeding, cold compress after.
Cracked Nipples: