Treatment for Postpartum Hemorrhage

Treatment options for heavy postpartum bleeding will depend on the source of the bleeding, when it happens, and how serious it is.

 

For example, if the uterus doesn't start to contract after delivery, the doctor may try to stimulate contractions by massaging the uterus. This can be done by pressing up through the birth canal with one hand and down on the abdomen with the other. Other possible treatments of serious postpartum bleeding include medications to help the uterus contract after delivery. In rare cases, additional surgery may be necessary to stop the postpartum hemorrhage.

 

If postpartum bleeding causes you to lose too much blood, you may need a blood transfusion. Receiving donated blood is generally safe, but there are always risks, such as the rare possibility of receiving blood that is infected with HIV or hepatitis. The estimated risk of contracting hepatitis C from blood transfusions is about 1 in 100,000, the risk of hepatitis B is about 1 in 200,000, and the risk of HIV is about 1 in 600,000.