Sexual abuse complicating childbirth

This code signifies that a patient has experienced sexual abuse, and this history or ongoing impact is complicating the current childbirth encounter. It addresses the direct influence of sexual abuse on the labor, delivery, or postpartum period, rather than the abuse itself being the primary reason for the encounter.

Apply this code when documentation clearly indicates that a history of sexual abuse is impacting the management or outcome of childbirth. This could include psychological distress, specific requests for care, or physical manifestations directly attributable to the abuse during labor, delivery, or the immediate postpartum period.

• Always sequence this code after the primary obstetric complication or delivery code.
• Ensure documentation explicitly links the sexual abuse to a complication or management decision during childbirth.
• Do not use this code for sexual abuse occurring during the current childbirth; instead, refer to codes for assault.