boggy uterus
A soft, poorly contracted uterine fundus indicating uterine atony, the leading cause of postpartum hemorrhage requiring emergency surgical intervention.
Full Definition
A boggy uterus describes the characteristic physical finding of a soft, enlarged, and poorly contracted uterine fundus following delivery. This clinical sign indicates uterine atony, the failure of the myometrium to contract effectively after childbirth. Uterine atony accounts for approximately 80% of postpartum hemorrhage cases and represents a true obstetric emergency. The normal postpartum uterus should feel firm and well-contracted at the level of the umbilicus; a boggy uterus instead feels soft, spongy, and often enlarged above the expected fundal height. Recognition of this finding should prompt immediate uterine massage, administration of uterotonics, and preparation for potential emergency surgical intervention if conservative measures fail.
Usage
Usage note: Use 'boggy' as a medical descriptor, not a colloquialism. Always pair with 'uterus' for clarity in clinical documentation.
In Context
- "Physical examination revealed a boggy uterus two fingerbreadths above the umbilicus with continued heavy bleeding." — Obstetric emergency consultation note
- "Despite bimanual compression and methylergonovine, the boggy uterus failed to contract, necessitating emergency hysterectomy." — Emergency cesarean section operative report