Postpartum Hemorrage
Postpartum Hemorrage Causes
Blood vessels in the area where the placenta was attatched bleed freely and hemorrhage occurs. Other causes include: placental abruption (the early detachment of the placenta from the uterus), placenta previa (the placenta covers or is near the cervical opening), overdistended uterus (excessive enlargement of the uterus due to too much amniotic fluid or a large baby), multiple pregnancy, or pregnancy-induced hypertension.
Postpartum Hemorrage Definition
Postpartum Hemorrage is excessive bleeding following the birth of a baby, particularly more common in cesarean births. It usually happens right after delivery, but it can also happen later.
Postpartum Hemorrage Diagnosis
A complete medical history and physical examination, diagnosis is usually based on symptoms. Laboratory tests may include: estimation of blood loss, pulse rate and blood pressure measurement, hematocrit (red blood cell count) or clotting factors in the blood.
Postpartum Hemorrage Symptoms and Signs
The most common symptoms include: uncontrolled bleeding, decreased blood pressure, increased heart rate, decrease in the red blood cell count, swelling and pain in tissues in the vaginal and perineal area
Postpartum Hemorrage Treatment
Depending on the cause of the postpartum hemorrhage, treatment may include: medication or manual massage to stimulate contractions, removal of placental pieces that remain in the uterus, examination of the uterus and other pelvic tissues, tying-off of bleeding blood vessels, laparotomy to find the cause of the bleeding, or hysterectomy as a last resort. It is very important to replace lost blood and fluids when treating postpartum hemorrhage.