Maternal mortality rates have declined greatly in the developed world, PPH remains a leading cause of maternal mortality elsewhere. In industrialized countries

Abstract

Although maternal mortality rates have declined greatly in the developed world, PPH remains a leading cause of maternal mortality elsewhere. In industrialized countries, PPH usually ranks in the top 3 causes of maternal mortality, along with embolism and hypertension. In the developing world, several countries have maternal mortality rates in excess of 1000 women per 100,000 live births, and World Health Organization statistics suggest that 60% of maternal deaths in developing countries are due to PPH, accounting for more than 100,000 maternal deaths per year.³ PPH is defined as blood loss of more than 500 ml following a vaginal delivery or more than 1000 mL following cesarean delivery. ^4,5 A loss of these amounts within 24 hours of delivery is termed early or primary PPH, whereas such losses are termed late or secondary PPH if they occur 24 hours after delivery. PPH occurs in 2% of all deliveries.^6,7 In developing countries most deaths resulting from PPH occur during the      first 24 hours after birth mainly due to delay in seeking care, delay in reaching care, and delay in receiving care