vulvar hematoma

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vulvar hematoma

Extravasation of blood into the soft tissues of the external female genitalia. The bleeding may occur after childbirth or as a result of trauma (e.g., rape trauma). Postpartum bleeding usually is due to the shearing of submucosal tissues during a difficult or forceps-assisted delivery.

Patient care

The woman usually complains of severe vulvar pain. Inspection may reveal a unilateral firm area of the labia majora that is extremely painful to the touch. Prompt application of an ice pack may limit further bleeding; however, large or enlarging hematomas may require surgical intervention (i.e., ligation and evacuation).