antepartum hemorrhage
Also written as: APH — antepartum hemorrhage
Bleeding from the genital tract occurring after 20 weeks of pregnancy but before delivery of the baby.
Full Definition
Vaginal bleeding that occurs during pregnancy after 20 weeks gestation but before the birth of the baby. This condition complicates 2-5% of pregnancies and can range from minor spotting to life-threatening hemorrhage. The two major causes are placenta previa (painless bleeding) and placental abruption (usually painful bleeding). Other causes include cervical lesions, trauma, and vasa previa. Evaluation includes assessment of maternal hemodynamic status, fetal well-being, and determination of the bleeding source. Management depends on the underlying cause, gestational age, and severity of bleeding.
Usage
Usage note: Abbreviated as APH; defined as bleeding after viability (20 weeks) but before delivery.
In Context
- "The patient presented with antepartum hemorrhage at 32 weeks, requiring immediate evaluation and monitoring." — Emergency department assessment
- "Ultrasound was performed to determine the cause of antepartum hemorrhage and rule out placenta previa." — Diagnostic workup note