Hey everyone, welcome back to MasterUSMLE! Today, we’re coveringvasa previa, a rare butdeadly obstetric emergency that youmust recognize on Step 2 CK and in real life.
So, what’s the setup? A pregnant patient, usually diagnosed in the third trimester, suddenly hasrupture of membranes (ROM) with painless vaginal bleeding and fetal bradycardia. If you see this,think vasa previa.
Here’s why it’s dangerous—the fetal vessels are running over the cervix, completely unprotected. When ROM occurs, these fragile vessels canrupture, leading to rapid fetal exsanguination and deathfirst-aid-for-the-usmle….
What’s the move? Immediate C-section. No waiting, no delays. Vaginal delivery cantear the remaining fetal vessels and result in fetal demise. This isnot the time for steroids, magnesium, or a biophysical profile.Get that baby out—now!
Key takeaway?Vasa previa = ROM + painless bleeding + fetal bradycardia = emergency C-section. Don’t wait, don’t hesitate—this is a life-or-death situation.
That’s it for today—keep it simple, stay sharp, and I’ll catch you next time on MasterUSMLE!
