Postpartum Haemorrhage: A Persistent Threat in Maternal Health

Suchitra Mishra, Bhakti Kallirwar, Punam Sangrame, Ujwala Mahajan

Abstract: Background: Postpartum haemorrhage (PPH) remains a major contributor to maternal morbidity and mortality, particularly in low-resource settings, despite advances in obstetric care. It is commonly defined as blood loss exceeding 500 mL after vaginal delivery or more than 1000 mL following caesarean section within the first 24 hours after childbirth. Uterine atony is the leading cause of PPH, wherein the uterus fails to contract effectively after delivery. Other contributing factors include genital tract trauma, retained placental tissue, and coagulation disorders. Several maternal and obstetric risk factors- such as prolonged labour, multiple gestation, hypertensive disorders of pregnancy, and a prior history of PPH- further increase the risk of developing this condition. Treatment: Preventive strategies play a crucial role in reducing the incidence of PPH. Active management of the third stage of labour (AMTSL), which includes timely administration of uterotonic agents such as oxytocin, controlled umbilical cord traction, and uterine massage, is widely practiced to minimize blood loss. However, early recognition of PPH remains challenging due to underestimation of blood loss and delays in clinical intervention. Effective treatment requires a combination of pharmacological approaches- such as uterotonics and antifibrinolytics like tranexamic acid- and mechanical measures including uterine balloon tamponade and compression sutures. In cases of severe haemorrhage, surgical interventions such as arterial ligation or hysterectomy may be necessary. Timely access to blood transfusion services and advanced critical care facilities is essential for improving maternal outcomes. Conclusion: Despite significant progress in obstetric care, effective management of postpartum haemorrhage remains challenging in developing countries due to disparities in healthcare infrastructure, shortages of trained healthcare professionals, and limited access to essential medical supplies. Addressing these issues requires strengthening healthcare systems, implementing standardized clinical protocols, and providing continuous professional training. Improving emergency obstetric care and ensuring access to life-saving interventions can substantially reduce the global burden of postpartum haemorrhage.

Keywords: Postpartum haemorrhage, vaginal delivery, placental tissue, maternal morbidity, maternal mortality

How to Cite?: Suchitra Mishra, Bhakti Kallirwar, Punam Sangrame, Ujwala Mahajan, "Postpartum Haemorrhage: A Persistent Threat in Maternal Health", Volume 15 Issue 4, April 2026, International Journal of Science and Research (IJSR), Pages: 908-915, https://www.ijsr.net/getabstract.php?paperid=SR26404115843, DOI: https://dx.dx.doi.org/10.21275/SR26404115843

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