Publication:

Retrospective descriptive study of postpartum hemorrhage: a hospital-based study

Background Post-partum hemorrhage (PPH) remains one of the leading causes of maternal morbidity and mortality worldwide. Despite improvements in obstetric care, it continues to be a major contributor to preventable maternal deaths. This study aimed to determine the prevalence, etiological factors, risk determinants, management patterns, and maternal outcomes of post-partum hemorrhage in a tertiary care hospital.

Methods This retrospective descriptive study was conducted in the department of obstetrics and gynecology, Sri Venkateshwaraa Medical College Hospital and Research Centre, from June 2022 to May 2025. A total of 2,510 deliveries were recorded during the study period. Cases of primary PPH were identified according to the World Health Organization definition (blood loss ≥500 ml after vaginal delivery or ≥1000 ml after caesarean section within 24 hours). Data were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics.

Results Among 2,510 deliveries, 70 women developed PPH, giving a prevalence of 2.8%. The majority of affected women were aged 20-34 years (82.9%) and multigravidas (52.9%). Uterine atony was the most common cause (78.6%), followed by traumatic causes (17.1%) and retained placental tissue (4.3%). Induced labour (17.1%) and prolonged labour (11.4%) were the leading associated risk factors. Medical management was successful in 90% of cases, while 10% required surgical intervention, including uterine artery ligation, compression sutures, and obstetric hysterectomy. Blood transfusion was required in 45.7% of patients. One maternal death (1.4%) occurred due to disseminated intravascular coagulation and hypovolemic shock.

Conclusions The prevalence of PPH in this hospital-based study was 2.8%. Uterine atony remained the predominant cause. Early recognition, prompt medical management, and timely intervention to surgical procedures were effective in reducing maternal morbidity and mortality.