POSTPARTUM HAEMORRHAGE

A PREVENTABLE COMPLICATION OF LABOUR

Abstract

Objective: To determine the frequency, risk factors and existing practice for the management of massive primary postpartum hemorrhage (PPH). Study design: Retrospective cross-sectional study. Setting: Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology at Kuwait Teaching Hospital, Peshawar. Materials and methods: this study was performed from June 2008 to June 2010. Women who developed massive primary PPH after admission or were admitted with it, were included in the study. Medical record files of these women were reviewed for maternal mortality and morbidities which included mode of delivery, possible cause of postpartum hemorrhage, supportive medical and surgical intervention. Data was entered in the pre-structured proforma. Estimates of blood loss were made on history, visual parameters and patient’s condition. All the data was analyzed by using statistical computer soft ware SPSS 6. Results: During the study period total number of obstetrical admissions were 2944. Forty nine out of 2769 (1.76%) deliveries, developed massive primary PPH. The highest frequency of massive primary PPH was observed in grand multiparous patients. Uterine atony was the most common cause of the complication. Birth attendants other than doctor and delivery outside the study unit were significantly associated with the adverse outcome in these patients. Seventy five percent patients,(36/49) who had massive PPH, delivered vaginally. High dependency unit (HDU) was required in 12% (6/49) of women. Only one caesarian hysterectomy was done. There was one maternal mortality. Blood transfusions were required in 82% (40/49) of the patients. Conclusions: Postpartum hemorrhage can be a preventable condition if early identification and timely management of this complication and its risk factors is observed. Uterine atony is the leading cause of immediate PPH. The main risk factors for PPH due to uterine atony are high parity, a large fetus, multiple fetuses, hydramnios, or past history of PPH. Determining the frequency, risk factors and management of primary postpartum hemorrhage will help design stepwise protocols for prevention and management of primary PPH in our setup.