Alternative Names & Classifications:
Postpartum Pituitary Necrosis (CLINICAL), Sheehan's Syndrome (CLINICAL)
Description
During pregnancy, the pituitary gland enlarges significantly, making it highly dependent on a robust blood supply. If a woman experiences severe postpartum hemorrhage or hypovolemic shock during delivery, the intense drop in blood pressure starves the enlarged pituitary of oxygen. This ischemic event causes parts of the gland to die (necrosis), leading to a permanent deficiency in multiple pituitary hormones.