Intrauterine Lavage for Control of Uterine Atony

The history of intrauterine lavage in the management of postpartum hemorrhage and uterine atony, a procedure which almost has disappeared from current obstetric therapeutics in this country, is reviewed. Hot intrauterine lavage may be a highly effective treatment for uterine atony which is refractory to oxytocic agents. It is easy to perform, requires only materials and equipment which are readily available, and carries minimal maternal risk. The technical details of the procedure are detailed, the indications, contraindications, and precautions discussed, and its use illustrated by case reports. It is suggested that hot intrauterine lavage should be reevaluated clinically and critically assessed as a potentially useful adjunct in the conservative management of postpartum hemorrhage caused solely by uterine atony unresponsive to oxytocic drugs, and employed before surgical intervention is contemplated