AI Insight
Postpartum haemorrhage (PPH) remains a leading cause of maternal mortality worldwide. While uterotonic drugs administered during childbirth to contract the uterus are the primary prevention strategy, the article emphasizes that PPH prevention requires a broader approach beyond just uterotonics. Additional preventive measures can either stop PPH from occurring or reduce its severity when it does happen.
Why it matters
Implementing comprehensive PPH prevention strategies at scale can reduce maternal deaths, prevent trauma to women, and decrease burden on healthcare systems that are already under strain. A prevention-focused approach is likely more effective than relying solely on treating PPH after it occurs.
Postpartum haemorrhage (PPH) is a leading cause of maternal death. Preventing PPH can spare women from experiencing the trauma and risks of PPH, reduce the strain on overstretched health systems, and probably produce better outcomes than a strategy solely focused on PPH treatment. Prevention of PPH is often interpreted as provision of uterotonic drugs to contract the uterus at the time of childbirth. Although uterotonics are a central strategy for PPH prevention, several other approaches can prevent PPH or ameliorate its severity.
Source: [Series] Prevention of postpartum haemorrhage: from evidence to implementation at scale