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Postpartum Haemorrhage

Excessive bleeding within 24 hours of birth is one of the leading causes of maternal death.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Kadın Hastalıkları ve Doğum department. Book Appointment →

What is Postpartum Haemorrhage?

PPH is excessive blood loss within the first 24 hours after delivery (primary) or between 24 hours and 12 weeks postpartum (secondary). Worldwide, more than 100,000 mothers die each year from PPH.

The causes can be summarised as the '4 Ts': Tone (uterine atony, 70%), Trauma (lacerations and rupture, 20%), Tissue (retained placenta, 10%) and Thrombin (coagulopathy, <1%).

Rapid recognition, active management, uterotonic drugs and surgical intervention when needed are life-saving. Antenatal risk assessment and preparation are equally important.

Symptoms

Excessive vaginal bleeding after delivery
A soft, non-contracted uterus (atony)
Hypotension and tachycardia
Pale skin, sweating and weakness
Altered consciousness (shock)
Oliguria and reduced urine output

Risk Factors

Prolonged labour
Multiple pregnancy and polyhydramnios
Macrosomia
Multiparity (>5)
Previous PPH
Placenta praevia, accreta and abruption

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Urgently for excessive bleeding after delivery
  • Heavy vaginal bleeding after discharge from hospital
  • Large blood clots and dizziness
  • Weakness, pallor and palpitations
  • Fever and offensive lochia (suspected secondary PPH)

Treatment Methods

01
Uterine massage and uterotonics: oxytocin, misoprostol, methylergometrine
02
Rapid intravenous fluid and blood-product resuscitation
03
Tranexamic acid within the first 3 hours
04
Bimanual compression and intrauterine balloon tamponade (Bakri)
05
Surgical options: B-Lynch suture, arterial ligation, hysterectomy
06
Massive transfusion protocol and intensive-care monitoring

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Kadın Hastalıkları ve Doğum department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Kadın Hastalıkları ve Doğum Department

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.