Postpartum Haemorrhage (PPH)

Question 1

Define PPH

Answer 1

Bleeding from the genital tract in excess of 500ml within 24hrs of birth

Question 2

Causes of PPH

Answer 2

Tone, Tissue, Trauma, Thrombin

Question 3

Signs of PPH

Answer 3

Visible bleeding
Maternal Collapse
Pallor
Increasing pulse rate
Falling blood pressure
Altered consciousness
Enlarged uterus

Question 4

Treatment

Answer 4

Call for help: Obstetric Emergency

Stop the bleeding: Rub the fundus, oxytocin medication (imi, iv, pr), empty uterus and bladder

Resuscitate the mother: IV Fluids, Bimanual compression if bleeding persists > theatre, assess Hb level