Prevention first, preparedness always!
We can effectively reduce the number of women bleeding excessively after birth by finding the right balance between prevention and treatment.
This is the main argument put forward in this strong Commentary in the Lancet by Franka Cadee from Maternity Foundation, Jeffrey L Jacobs from MSD for Mothers, Anne-Beatrice Kihara from FIGO, Annie Hortense Atchoumi from Federation of Midwifery Associations of Francophone Africa, Fata Forna from the Mama-Pikin Foundation, Uchenna Igbokwe from the Solina Centre for International Development and Research, and Anna af Ugglas from Internaltional Confederation of Midwives.
Of course, healthcare professionals must always be prepared to manage excessive bleeding after birth – clinically known as postpartum haemorrhage (PPH) – which affects 17% of all women. However, the authors – representing leading maternal health NGOs, international federations, researchers, and pharmaceuticals – emphasise the need to uphold the urgency and primacy of optimising PPH prevention to enhance long term sustainability.
As excessive bleeding remains the leading direct cause of maternal morbidity and mortality globally, action is needed on all fronts. In their commentary, the authors highlight three key areas where concerted and equal efforts are essential. We must:
- prioritise prevention efforts
- be prepared for, and implement, early detection and treatment responses
- ensure health-care professionals, especially midwives, are well educated, motivated, and supported to provide quality care.
Did you know that Maternity Foundation has strengthened its focus on prevention in maternal and newborn health? In recent years, our digital tool, the Safe Delivery App has been enhanced with additional modules focusing on preventive services including perinatal mental health, modern contraception, antenatal care and postnatal care.
