Intramuscular versus intravenous prophylactic oxytocin for postpartum hemorrhage after vaginal delivery: a randomized controlled study

Abstract

Purpose: Prevention of postpartum haemorrhage (PPH) is essential in the pursuit of improved health care for women. Oxytocin, the most commonly used uterotonic agent to prevent PPH, has no established the route of administration. In this study we aimed to compare whether the mode of oxytocin administration, i.e., intravenous and intramuscular administration, has an effect on the potential benefits and side effects.

Materials and methods: A total of 256 women were randomised into two groups: intramuscular group (128) or intravenous group (128).

Results: Estimated blood loss during the third stage of labour was similar between the two groups (p = 0.572). Further there were no statistically significant difference was noted between the two groups in terms of the mean duration of labor, duration of the third stage of labor, manual removal of the placenta, need for instrumental delivery, need for blood transfusion, PPH ≥500 mL, PPH ≥1000 mL, or length of hospital stay.

Conclusion: Using oxytocin by intravenous and intramuscular route has a similar efficacy and adverse effects.

Keywords: Oxytocin; Postpartum haemorrhage; Randomized controlled trial; Vaginal delivery.