Postpartum hemorrhage is severe bleeding (more than 500 ml of blood loss) after the delivery of the baby. About 4 percent of women have postpartum hemorrhage and it is more likely with a cesarean birth. Usually, postpartum hemorrhage occurs right after delivery, but it can occur later as well.

What is postpartum hemorrhage?

The uterus usually tightens once the baby is delivered and this will detach the placenta. The contraction will aid in compressing the bleeding vessels where the placenta was attached. If the uterus is unable to contract strongly, the blood vessels will bleed freely causing a hemorrhage to occur.

What increases the risk of postpartum hemorrhage occuring?

• Delivery of a big baby

• Multiple pregnancy Prolonged labour

• Infection

• Obesity

• Medications that induce labour

• The use of forceps

• Tear in the birth canal/ vaginal tissues/ uterine blood vessel

• An increased tendency to bleed easily due to a blood clot disorder

Symptoms

• Heart rate has increased

• Bleeding is severe

• Blood pressure is falling

• Swelling and pain in tissues around the vagina area

The symptoms of postpartum hemorrhage may resemble other conditions or medical problems. Always consult your physician for a diagnosis.

Preventions

• Prior to delivery, if you’re anemic seek help for it.

• Episiotomies only if necessary

What will the doctor do?

• Examine the uterus and pelvic tissues

• Prescribe medications such as prostaglandins, oxytocin or ergometrine

• Remove any remaining placenta pieces from the uterus

• Perform surgery that will enable to find the cause of bleeding. Surgery is known as laparotomy.

• Surgically remove the uterus. This is known as hysterectomy and is usually the very last thing doctors will resolve to.

Worrying Fact

Severe blood loss can cause the new mother’s blood pressure to fall considerably and this may lead to shock and even death. However, early detection can lead to a successful recovery.

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