Important information for prompt action and treatment
Postpartum haemorrhage, or bleeding after childbirth, is a common but serious condition that can occur after a vaginal delivery or caesarean section. It is important to understand both the normal amounts of bleeding and the measures taken to control and treat severe postpartum haemorrhage.
What is normal postpartum haemorrhage?
In childbirth, there is always some bleeding associated with the detachment of the placenta from the uterine wall. A normal postpartum haemorrhage is often below 500 ml and up to 1000 ml. To prevent major bleeding, an injection of Oxytocin is usually given immediately after the baby is born. This injection helps to contract the uterus and reduce the risk of bleeding.
What to do if bleeding continues
If the bleeding does not stop despite the initial measures, we will quickly take further treatment. In both vaginal birth and caesarean section, postpartum haemorrhage can develop into a more serious condition, but with the right treatment we can minimise the risk of serious complications.
According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), major postpartum haemorrhage is defined as a loss of more than 500 ml of blood, but in Sweden the limit is set at 1000 ml. The most common causes of postpartum haemorrhage are uterine atony (when the uterus does not contract properly), birth injury, haematoma, uterine rupture or placental retention.
Step-by-step measures for postpartum haemorrhage
To treat postpartum haemorrhage, a number of effective drugs and medical measures are used
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1. Oxytocin intravenously (IV) – To stimulate uterine contractions.
2. Oxytocin drip – To enhance the effect of Oxytocin.
3. Methergine IV – A medicine used to improve uterine contractions.
4. Cyclocapron IV – To reduce bleeding by stopping blood flow.
5. Prostinfenem IM – To stimulate uterine contractions.
6. Cytotec by mouth or rectally – A medicine that helps to reduce bleeding.If these measures do not provide sufficient control of bleeding, a Postpartum Balloon (PPB) is used to stop the bleeding.
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Postpartum balloon (PPB)
When the above measures are not enough, the postpartum balloon is used as an effective method to manage postpartum haemorrhage. The balloon is used to create a homogeneous pressure on the uterine walls, thus preventing further bleeding.
How the PPB balloon works:
Vaginal delivery: the balloon is inserted into the uterus via the vagina.
Caesarean section: The balloon is inserted via the hysterotomy and placed in the uterus through the cervix.
Advantages of the PPB balloon:
• Easy and quick to use in emergency situations.
• Efficient filling and blood drainage thanks to the non-return valve system and double drainage holes.
• The balloon can be filled with up to 500 ml of sterile physiological fluid to provide optimal pressure.
• Can be used after both vaginal delivery and caesarean section.
• Hypoallergenic, as the balloon is made of latex-free silicone.
Technical features:
• Intuitive assembly for quick use.
• Anatomical shape that follows the walls of the uterus for effective control of bleeding.
• Large drainage channel to ensure that blood is evacuated effectively and without blockage.
By using advanced technologies such as the postpartum balloon, we can provide rapid and effective treatment for severe postpartum haemorrhage, reducing the risk of complications and improving safety for both mother and baby.
Postpartum haemorrhage is a serious complication that can occur after childbirth, but with the right measures and treatment, most bleeding can be managed effectively. By administering Oxytocin early, monitoring closely and using advanced medical devices such as the postpartum balloon when necessary, we can ensure that bleeding is controlled and that both mother and baby receive the best possible care after birth.
At Cetro Medical, we are committed to providing the best medical solutions for postpartum care and to ensuring that healthcare professionals have access to effective and safe treatments for complications such as postpartum haemorrhage.
Check it out here.https://cetromedical.se/produkt/ppb-balloon-24f-ll/