Mallory-Weiss tear diagnosed in the immediate postpartum period: a case report.

BACKGROUND: Mallory-Weiss tears occur rarely during pregnancy, labour and delivery, and the puerperium, despite the increased frequency of retching and vomiting. CASE: We describe a Mallory-Weiss syndrome diagnosed during the immediate postpartum period in a 34-year-old primigravida. The syndrome initially manifested as lower gastrointestinal bleeding and melena. CONCLUSION: If unrecognized, this complication may lead to life-threatening internal bleeding. It is important to look for an occult bleeding source with such a presentation, and prompt intervention is essential.