Vaginal delivery through an intrapartum bucket handle cervical tear: a rare case report

Abstract

Cervical tears, though rare, pose serious risks to maternal health, especially postpartum haemorrhage. During labour, these injuries can include cervical avulsion, annular detachment, bucket-handle tears, and lateral tears. Our case report presents a rare instance of spontaneous vaginal birth through a posterior bucket-handle cervical tear in a primiparous woman. This occurred despite the external cervical os being partially dilated without known risk factors. This situation serves as a warning that strong uterine contractions accompanied by a failure of the external cervical os to dilate may indicate an imminent cervical tear. In cases of excessive postpartum blood loss, it is essential to maintain a high level of suspicion for cervical tears. This emphasizes the importance of thoroughly inspecting the genital canal after a vaginal birth. Prompt diagnosis, repair, anatomical restoration, and haemostasis are essential for achieving the best outcomes.