Description
Postpartum haemorrhage (PPH) remains a significant cause of serious maternal morbidity in the
developed world, and mortality related to haemorrhage continues to feature in the Confidential Enquiry into Maternal Deaths. In this review we address common risk factors and causes of PPH, as well as adequate planning of intrapartum care and appropriate prophylactic measures. Approaches to the management of patients with major PPH are discussed both in terms of general measures as well as specific medical and surgical treatments. The emphasis is on prompt recognition, decisive management, multidisciplinary approach and good communication, which should be encouraged and developed by means of staff training, alongside the implementation of local major obstetric haemorrhage guidelines.
