Goals for Collaborative Management of Obstetric Hemorrhage

Abstract

Hemorrhage remains a leading cause of preventable maternal morbidity and mortality worldwide and in the United States. Postpartum hemorrhage is the number one cause of severe morbidity during hospitalization for birth, despite hospital, state, and national initiatives. In addition, studies show that more than 90% of maternal deaths related to obstetric hemorrhage are preventable. This article reviews relevant physiologic changes of pregnancy that may have an impact on hemorrhage management and describes collaborative approaches for management of hemorrhage in this unique population.

Keywords: Hypovolemic shock; Maternal morbidity and mortality; Obstetric hemorrhage; Transfusion.