Postpartum Haemorrhage: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

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Postpartum haemorrhage (PPH) is a serious condition that occurs after childbirth. It is defined as the loss of more than 500 ml of blood within 24 hours of delivery. PPH can be life-threatening if not treated promptly. This article will discuss the causes, symptoms, and treatment of PPH.

Causes of Postpartum Haemorrhage

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There are several causes of PPH, including:

• Uterine atony: This is the most common cause of PPH. It occurs when the uterus does not contract properly after delivery, leading to excessive bleeding.
• Retained placenta: If the placenta is not delivered within 30 minutes after childbirth, it can cause PPH.
• Trauma: A tear in the uterus, cervix, or vagina can cause PPH.
• Coagulation disorders: If the mother has a bleeding disorder or is taking anticoagulant medication, it can lead to PPH.
• Uterine inversion: This is a rare but serious complication that occurs when the uterus turns inside out after delivery.

Symptoms of Postpartum Haemorrhage

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The symptoms of PPH can vary depending on the severity of the bleeding. Some common symptoms include:

• Excessive bleeding: If the mother is bleeding heavily, it can be a sign of PPH.
• Low blood pressure: If the mother's blood pressure drops, it can be a sign of PPH.
• Rapid heart rate: If the mother's heart rate increases, it can be a sign of PPH.
• Shortness of breath: If the mother is having difficulty breathing, it can be a sign of PPH.
• Pale skin: If the mother's skin appears pale, it can be a sign of PPH.

Treatment of Postpartum Haemorrhage

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The treatment of PPH will depend on the cause and severity of the bleeding. Some common treatments include:

• Uterine massage: This can help the uterus contract and stop the bleeding.
• Medication: The mother may be given medication to help the uterus contract or to stop the bleeding.
• Blood transfusion: If the mother has lost a significant amount of blood, she may need a blood transfusion.
• Surgery: In severe cases, the mother may need surgery to stop the bleeding.

Prevention of Postpartum Haemorrhage

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There are several ways to prevent PPH, including:

• Active management of the third stage of labour: This involves administering medication to help the uterus contract and delivering the placenta within 30 minutes of childbirth.
• Early detection and treatment: If PPH is detected early, it can be treated promptly.
• Monitoring: The mother should be closely monitored after delivery for signs of PPH.
• Good nutrition: The mother should have a healthy diet during pregnancy to prevent anaemia and other conditions that can lead to PPH.

Conclusion

Postpartum haemorrhage is a serious condition that can occur after childbirth. It is important to be aware of the causes and symptoms of PPH and to seek prompt treatment if necessary. With proper prevention and management, the risk of PPH can be reduced.