Venous air embolism after using a birth-training device.

Abstract

This case describes a birth-training device used by a pregnant woman to stretch the perineum. A primigravida suffered near cardiovascular collapse and subsequent acute respiratory distress syndrome after using the device at home. Her symptoms and clinical course of disease revealed a high likelihood of venous air embolism. The patient likely suffered a venous air embolism in association with the use of the birth-training device. The complications suffered by this patient should give caution about use of such devices.