What is a Delivery Haemorrhage?

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What is a Delivery Hemorrhage?

A delivery hemorrhage, also known as postpartum hemorrhage (PPH), is excessive bleeding that occurs after childbirth.

It is a serious and potentially life-threatening complication that requires immediate medical attention.

Let's explore what causes a delivery hemorrhage, its risk factors, signs, and treatment options.

Causes of Delivery Hemorrhage

A delivery hemorrhage can occur due to various factors, including:

Uterine atony: The most common cause of PPH is uterine atony, which occurs when the uterus fails to contract effectively after delivery. This can result in uncontrolled bleeding.
Tissue retention: Incomplete removal of placenta or membranes from the uterus can lead to bleeding.
Trauma or injury: Tears in the uterus, cervix, or vaginal tissues during childbirth can contribute to excessive bleeding.
Blood clotting disorders: Certain medical conditions or medications that affect blood clotting can increase the risk of postpartum hemorrhage.

Risk Factors

Several factors can increase the risk of experiencing a delivery hemorrhage:

Previous history: A previous episode of postpartum hemorrhage puts you at a higher risk of recurrence.
Uterine abnormalities: Certain uterine conditions or surgeries may increase the risk of hemorrhage.
Multiple pregnancies: Carrying twins, triplets, or more can increase the likelihood of postpartum hemorrhage.
Prolonged or induced labor: A longer labor duration or induction of labor may increase the risk.
Assisted vaginal delivery: The use of instruments such as forceps or vacuum extraction during delivery can increase the risk of hemorrhage.
Placenta-related complications: Conditions like placenta previa (placenta covering the cervix) or placental abruption (placenta detaching from the uterus) can increase the risk of bleeding.

Signs and Symptoms

Signs of postpartum hemorrhage may include:

Excessive or heavy bleeding: Bleeding that saturates a sanitary pad within an hour or large blood clots passing.
Signs of low blood pressure: Dizziness, lightheadedness, fainting, or rapid heartbeat.
Fatigue or weakness: Feeling unusually tired or weak.
Pale skin or paleness: A noticeable loss of color in the skin.
Feeling of anxiety or confusion: Feeling anxious, confused, or disoriented.
Abdominal pain or discomfort: Unusual or severe pain in the abdominal area.

Treatment and Management

Immediate medical attention is crucial if a delivery hemorrhage is suspected. Treatment options may include:

Medications: Medications to stimulate uterine contractions (oxytocin, misoprostol) or medications that help with blood clotting (tranexamic acid) may be administered.
Manual interventions: The healthcare provider may perform a manual removal of any retained placental tissue or blood clots from the uterus.
Surgical procedures: In severe cases, surgical interventions such as uterine artery embolization or hysterectomy may be necessary to control bleeding.

Prevention and Preparedness

While not all cases of delivery hemorrhage can be prevented, certain measures can help reduce the risk:

Prenatal care: Regular prenatal check-ups help identify and manage any potential risk factors or conditions that may contribute to postpartum hemorrhage.
Labor management: Skilled healthcare providers who closely monitor labor and promptly address any issues can help reduce the risk of excessive bleeding.
Medications and interventions: Medications such as oxytocin or controlled cord traction may be used to prevent or manage bleeding during delivery.
Emergency preparedness: Healthcare facilities should have protocols and resources in place to promptly respond to postpartum hemorrhage and provide necessary interventions.

Seek Medical Attention Immediately

If you experience excessive bleeding or any signs of postpartum hemorrhage, it is essential to seek medical attention immediately.

Delay in treatment can have serious consequences. Contact your healthcare provider or emergency services right away.

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Found out I was spotting today and went to the hospital turns out I’m a week ahead then my OBGYN said and I apparently have a haemorrhage in my uterus baby heart rate is a 172.. I’m freaking out a little… and worried as hell for this baby… preyers need!

Childbirth Stages of labor

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