Postpartum haemorrhage—a continuing problem

The factors responsible for postpartum haemorrhage (PPH) in singleton vaginal deliveries, not complicated by a retained placenta, were identified by comparing labour characteristics in 86 women who had a PPH (blood loss > 500 ml) with 351 women whose blood loss at delivery was < 350 ml. Primiparity, induction of labour by amniotomy/ oxytocin, forceps delivery, long first and second stages, oxytocin com‐pared with syntometrine (oxytocin plus ergometrine maleate), as a prophylactic oxytocic, were identified as significant risk factors. Epi‐dural analgesia contributed indirectly to an increase in the risk of postpartum haemorrhage. The changes in labour ward practice over the last 20 years have resulted in the re‐emergence of PPH as a significant problem.