Obstetric Emergencies 2025-Maternal Hemorrhage

Video Transcription

Video Summary

The video discusses maternal hemorrhage, a leading cause of maternal mortality worldwide, accounting for 25% of maternal deaths, and second only to cardiac-related deaths in the US. Factors contributing to increased risk include ethnic disparities in health outcomes, rising chronic disease rates, an aging obstetric population, and more pregnancies in women over 30. Additional risks include obesity, diabetes, hypertension, and the increased use of C-sections, which has risen from 18% to 32% in recent decades.<br /><br />The discussion emphasizes recognizing and treating maternal hemorrhage quickly to prevent mortality, highlighting significant ethnic disparities. Solutions in California, such as a maternal hemorrhage safety bundle, have been adopted more widely, aiming to standardize care and improve outcomes. <br /><br />Key hemorrhage contributors include uterine atony, placental issues (previa, abruption, rupture), and prolonged labor, often exacerbated by the overuse of oxytocin. Practitioners are urged to prepare through airway and volume assessments, early detection, and following structured maternal safety bundles. The importance of massive transfusion protocols and active third-stage labor management are stressed to manage hemorrhage effectively, with an emphasis on multidisciplinary teamwork to optimize maternal outcomes.

Keywords

maternal hemorrhage

ethnic disparities

C-sections

safety bundle

uterine atony

massive transfusion

multidisciplinary teamwork