Megan Ross 1

Postpartum Hemorrhage

During pregnancy the body makes many altercations in attempts to fully develop and

carry the fetus (child). Among one of the those many changes is an increase of blood volume. A

mother can increase in blood volume by as much as 50%. The goal of this increase is not only

to support/ supply the fetus during utero but also to ensure that during birth the normal blood

volume is maintained. During birth, via vaginal or c-section it is expected that a mother bleed,

during and after. C-section mothers normally bleed more than vaginal births. The body naturally

adapts to this and tries to compensate ahead of time. There are certain cases where this

“compensation mechanism” does not always work, or cannot keep up with the excessive blood

loss, for example: Postpartum hemorrhage.

Postpartum hemorrhage, is an excessive bleeding during or after the birthing process

that occurs in approximately 6% of births. Postpartum hemorrhage can occur as soon as 24

hours after birth (primary PPH), or as late as days or weeks after giving birth ( delayed or

secondary PPH(​"Postpartum hemorrhage." N.p., 2008. Web. 2 Apr. 2017​). Common causes of

PPH are, Inverted uterus, loss of tone of uterus, a rupture, lacerations to your vagina, placenta

previa. PPH usually occurs once the placenta starts to detach or after it actually detaches.

Some common treatments for PPH consist of, a practitioner messaging your uterus in

attempts to stimulate it to contract; which helps to stop the bleeding. A foley catheter will be

placed (if there is not one already in place) to help empty the bladder; an empty bladder makes

it easier for the uterus to contract properly. In addition a drug called Oxytocin will also be

administered via IV. Oxytocin is a hormone that has a few different effects on a mother before,

during and after childbirth. In this specific case oxytocin is given in attempt to help the uterus

contract which will in turn will slow, or stop the excessive bleeding. Bedrest is also another

precaution that will be taken, at least until the bleeding is under control.
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During your hospital stay it is expected for the mother who has PPH to feel light headed,

and weak, it is very important to stay hydrated, well rested, and seek help when attempting to

perform ADL’s to ensure no further damage due to falls or over exerting themselves.

Postpartum hemorrhage is not an uncommon event, however if gone untreated or recognized it

can be fetal. It is very important to be aware of the early signs and symptom before and after

giving birth. Remember some bleeding after birth is normal, but if it becomes excessive or if it is

at all questionable it is important to seek medical advice just to be safe.

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Sources:

"Postpartum hemorrhage." N.p., 2008. Web. 2 Apr. 2017​.