Question

define shock in relation to childbirth?

Answer 1

Shock means circulatory collapse. It is a medical emergency. Shock is a critical condition in which there is inadequate blood flow or perfusion which causes inadequate oxygenation of tissues. The circulatory system fails to provide the required oxygen and nutrients to the tissues and also fails to remove the metabolites.

During childbirth, shock can occur due to various reasons. The main causes and types of shock includes hemorrhagic shock and septic shock. Hemorrhagic shock occurs due to excessive blood loss during pregnancy, childbirth or after delivery. ( Antenatal, intranatal, postnatal). Septic shock can occur as a result of infections and septicemia.

Other major types and causes of shock include neurogenic, cardiogenic, endotoxic, anaphylactic, amniotic fluid embolism, air embolism, thromboembolism, anaesthetic complications etc.

In newborns there can be temporary loss of muscle tone and deep tendon reflexes, immediately following birth. That is called as shock of birth. It can happen due to hypovolemia, asphyxia, certain drugs, cardiogenic causes, obstruction to venous return etc.

If not treated properly it can lead to inadequate perfusion of tissues and organs leading to circulatory failure and eventually death. It is very much important to establish and maintain the circulation early as possible.