The vagina sometimes becomes ruptured, in which case a similar condition prevails, in all respects, as in case of ruptures of the uterus; except that the symptoms are not so intense, nor so dangerous. This accident occurs only during labor. A similar course of treatment must be resorted to; instruments must be used immediately, or extraction should be effected through the rent, should occasion require. which is very seldom in cases of this kind. The post-partum treatment, according to the medication above recommended, should be carefully instituted, and with reasonable hope of success.
There are certain diseases which may complicate labor, that require special and particular attention. Of this kind are haemoptysis and haematemesis. In these, cases the remedies must be resorted to which are usually employed in treating such diseases. As a general rule, hemorrhages will be controlled and labor will terminate in a regular hemorrhages will be controlled and labor will terminate in a regular, natural way. But if we are not thus fortunate, the labor must be terminated as soon as possible, by artificial means. In asthmas, palpitations, and other diseases of the heart, we should be governed in our action by the principles stated above. In aneurisms, where there is a great danger of rupture at any pain, immediate resort should be had to artificial means of delivery.
When hernia exists it should be reduced as soon as possible, and when it is utterly impossible to reduce it, the best practice is to resort to artificial means of delivery, in order that the hernial protrusion may not be strangulated longer than necessary, for fear of mortification and consequent sloughing. When the hernia is liable to return after reduction, it may be kept back by constant pressure. Fainting spells and syncopes are all curable by using the proper medicines. See remedies for Labor. When there is great exhaustion from debility, and it cannot be relieved by the proper medicines, resort to artificial means for delivery.
