Massive vulval oedema in multiple pregnancies at Bugando Medical Centre: Case reports

Abstract

Massive vulval oedema is not common during pregnancy, but when it develops, it often is associated with patient discomfort and management challenges. Two pregnant women presented to Bugando Medical Centre in Mwanza, Tanzania, with massive swelling of the vulva at 39 weeks and 32 weeks of gestation. Both women were found to have multiple gestations. Despite medical management, there was no resolution of the oedema. In both cases, vulval oedema subsided after being delivered by caesarean section. Major vulval oedema during pregnancy is a serious issue. If not treated appropriately, it can lead to major complications of increased blood loss and poor wound healing. Abdominally delivery is the preferred mode of delivery at our institution for massive vulval oedema. ______________________________________________________________________________

Spontaneous Massive Vulvar Edema in Pregnancy: A Case Report

“…Some manage surgically by incision and drainage or puncturing the edema or by mechanical drainage [ 9 , 10 ], while others prefer conservative management [ 11 ]. Moreover, it is important to find the cause, as management is best influenced by the cause of edema [ 2 ]. Some authors report that in most cases, vulvar edema resolves spontaneously after delivery [ 1 ].…”

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“…It has been suggested that it may be due to increased blood flow to the pelvic region, increased venous pressure, or hormonal changes. Vulvar edema has also been associated with various medical conditions, such as preeclampsia, significant proteinuria followed by hypoalbuminemia, diabetes, infection, trauma, neoplasms or multiple gestations [1][2][3][4]. It has also been reported to be caused by tocolytic therapy [5].…”