Cervical varices: An unusual source of first-trimester hemorrhage

J Clin Ultrasound. 2018 Mar;46(3):218-221. doi: 10.1002/jcu.22504. Epub 2017 May 29.

Abstract

Endocervical varices are a rare cause of obstetrical hemorrhage. Usually presenting in the second and third trimesters, bleeding varices often require pregnancy termination or indicated preterm birth via cesarean delivery. Our patient experienced variceal hemorrhage at 12 weeks' gestation in a dichorionic twin pregnancy conceived through in vitro fertilization. A low-lying placenta resolved at 19 weeks followed by variceal regression at 22 weeks' gestation. Endocervical varices causing first-trimester hemorrhage may regress with resolution of a coexisting low placental implantation, permitting planned vaginal delivery, despite progressive hemodynamic changes of pregnancy. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Ultrasound 46:218-221, 2018.

Keywords: cervical varices; obstetrical hemorrhage; transvaginal sonographic; vaginal bleeding.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Cervix Uteri / blood supply*
  • Cervix Uteri / diagnostic imaging
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Pregnancy
  • Pregnancy Complications / diagnostic imaging*
  • Pregnancy Trimester, First
  • Pregnancy, Twin
  • Ultrasonography, Prenatal / methods*
  • Uterine Cervical Diseases / diagnostic imaging*
  • Uterine Hemorrhage / etiology*
  • Varicose Veins / complications*
  • Varicose Veins / diagnostic imaging