Abstract
Secondary postpartum haemorrhage (SPPH) 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.
Keywords
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Article info
Publication history
Published online: August 02, 2011
Accepted:
July 14,
2011
Received in revised form:
July 7,
2011
Received:
February 15,
2011
Identification
Copyright
© 2011 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
