Which of the following is a sign of uterine rupture?

• A. Cessation of Labor
• B. Acute Sharp/Stabbing/Ripping Pain
• C. Rigid/Tender Abdomen
• D. Shock-like Vitals

Answer: (B)

Uterine rupture most often presents with a sudden, severe abdominal pain described as sharp or tearing, arising at the moment the uterine wall tears. This abrupt, intense pain is the hallmark because the rupture directly disrupts the uterus and irritates the surrounding tissues, signaling an acute emergency in labor—especially in a uterus with a scar from prior surgery. Other signs like cessation of labor can happen in various situations and aren’t specific to rupture. A rigid or tender abdomen can occur from intra-abdominal bleeding but isn’t the defining feature, and shock-like vitals indicate significant blood loss and may appear later as the situation worsens.