Diseases
postpartum haemorrhage
For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.
Overview
Postpartum hemorrhage (PPH) is severe vaginal bleeding after childbirth. It's a serious condition that can lead to death. Other signs of postpartum hemorrhage are dizziness, feeling faint and blurred vision. PPH can occur after delivery or up to 12 weeks postpartum.
Symptoms
- drop in blood pressure like dizziness, blurred vision or feeling faint.
- nausea or vomiting.
- increased heart rate.
- decreased red blood cell count.
- pale or clammy skin.
Causes
- uterine atony: uterine atony (or uterine tone) refers to a soft and weak uterus after delivery.
- uterine trauma
- retained placental tissue
Risk factors
- postpartum hemorrhage occurs in about 1% to 10% of pregnancies.
- multiple pregnancies.
- having twins, triplets or more.
Diagnosis
- continual monitoring of your pulse rate and blood pressure to detect problems.
- blood tests to measure red blood cells (hematocrit) and clotting factors.
- ultrasound to get a detailed image of your uterus and other organs.
Medicines used
Frequently asked questions
What is postpartum haemorrhage?
Postpartum hemorrhage (PPH) is severe vaginal bleeding after childbirth. It's a serious condition that can lead to death. Other signs of postpartum hemorrhage are dizziness, feeling faint and blurred vision. PPH can occur after delivery or up to 12 weeks postpartum.
What are the symptoms of postpartum haemorrhage?
drop in blood pressure like dizziness, blurred vision or feeling faint., nausea or vomiting., increased heart rate., decreased red blood cell count., pale or clammy skin.
What causes postpartum haemorrhage?
uterine atony: uterine atony (or uterine tone) refers to a soft and weak uterus after delivery.; uterine trauma; retained placental tissue
Which medicines are used for postpartum haemorrhage?
carbetocin
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