Secondary post-partum haemorrhage: Challenges in evidence-based causes and management

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Abstract

Secondary postpartum haemorrhage is an important post-natal issue, whose significance is perceived differently between practices, settings and probably within cultures.

It is generally less focussed upon, in contrast to its primary counterpart.

Patients prefer that it is treated promptly, even when it is not life-threatening. Intensity of blood loss, and the lesser popularity of conservative management drive clinicians towards the active options.

Remarkably, none of the current treatment options is based on any evidence. Suction evacuation of the uterus may be complicated by life-threatening complications and blood transfusion. There are a few guidelines, and probably no protocols. In this review, we highlight salient factors to take into consideration, and propose a locally adaptable flowchart, which may be of use to General Practice doctors, Community Midwives and Obstetricians.