Overview
Postpartum hemorrhage is defined traditionally as blood loss of ≥500 mL for vaginal delivery and ≥1000 mL for cesarean delivery, after completion of the third stage of labor.
It may present as either early (primary) or late (secondary or delayed) postpartum hemorrhage.
Women with bleeding disorders have an increased risk of both early and late postpartum hemorrhage.
In active management of the third stage of labor prophylactic uterotonic agents should be offered to reduce the risk of postpartum hemorrhage. The selection of uterotonic agents will be dependent on the availability of the drug, syringes and needles along with storage capabilities (Oxytocin and Ergometrine injectables require refrigeration).
For further information regarding the management of Postpartum Hemorrhage, please refer to Disease Algorithm for the Treatment Guideline.
It may present as either early (primary) or late (secondary or delayed) postpartum hemorrhage.
Women with bleeding disorders have an increased risk of both early and late postpartum hemorrhage.
In active management of the third stage of labor prophylactic uterotonic agents should be offered to reduce the risk of postpartum hemorrhage. The selection of uterotonic agents will be dependent on the availability of the drug, syringes and needles along with storage capabilities (Oxytocin and Ergometrine injectables require refrigeration).
For further information regarding the management of Postpartum Hemorrhage, please refer to Disease Algorithm for the Treatment Guideline.
