Trauma in Pregnancy

Abstract

Trauma in pregnancy can range from a mild injury, such as a fall from standing height, to a major injury, involving a penetrating injury or a high force motor vehicle collision. Providing care to a pregnant patient with trauma presents a unique challenge as 2 patients are at risk for complications, that is, the mother and the fetus, both of whom require evaluation and management. Health care professionals should be aware of and be prepared to manage complications of trauma in pregnancy, given its significant associated morbidity and mortality. This article details the epidemiology, etiology, assessment, diagnosis, and management of trauma in pregnancy.