Module Overview

This module provides a comprehensive review of maternal obstetric injuries that occur during pregnancy, labor, and the postpartum period. It covers classification, mechanisms, risk factors, clinical features, diagnostic approaches, immediate and long-term management, prevention strategies, and the role of the healthcare team in reducing morbidity. The content emphasizes high-risk populations, evidence-based interventions, and structured clinical decision-making. It is designed for midwifery, nursing, and medical students, as well as healthcare professionals involved in maternal care.

Module Outline:

Introduction to Maternal Obstetric Injuries

• Definitions
• Incidence and burden
• Classification (minor vs major injuries)

Perineal and Vaginal Trauma

• Degrees of perineal tears (1st to 4th degree)
• Episiotomy: types, indications, complications
• Vaginal and vulvar lacerations

Cervical Injuries

• Causes (e.g. instrumental delivery, precipitate labor)
• Identification and repair

Uterine Rupture and Uterine Inversion

• Risk factors, signs, and emergency response
• Surgical and non-surgical interventions

Bladder and Urethral Injuries

• Intraoperative and delivery-related injuries
• Fistula formation and repair (vesicovaginal, urethrovaginal)

Anal Sphincter and Rectal Injuries

• Obstetric anal sphincter injuries (OASIS)
• Identification, classification, and repair
• Post-repair rehabilitation and continence management

Postpartum Hemorrhage Secondary to Trauma

• Role of genital tract trauma
• Clinical recognition and intervention

Assessment and Diagnostic Approaches

• Perineal examination techniques
• Imaging and endoscopy where appropriate

Management and Surgical Repair Techniques

• Principles of surgical repair
• Suture materials and techniques
• Multidisciplinary approach

Prevention Strategies

• Antenatal education
• Skilled birth attendance
• Labor monitoring and partograph use
• Evidence-based episiotomy use
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Module Requirements

• A medical science background
• Self-motivation
• Free or premium Medcrine account

Module Curriculum