Delayed postpartum hemorrhage: A rare presentation of carbon monoxide poisoning

A 41-year-old woman presented with postpartum hemorrhage and altered mentation. A markedly elevated serum carboxyhemoglobin level was noted. Oxygen therapy was initiated with resolution of the patient’s bleeding and improved mental status. Carbon monoxide poisoning is a rare and previously unreported cause of postpartum hemorrhage resulting from a unique pathophysiologic mechanism. (Am J Obstet Gynecol 2001;184:243-4.)