The crucial role of intensive care in managing postpartum hemorrhage (PPH)

Obstetric emergencies pose a significant threat to maternal health globally, with postpartum hemorrhage (PPH), hypertensive disorders, and pregnancy-related infections being the leading causes. Postpartum hemorrhage itself accounts for 25-30% of total presentations in emergency rooms. Factors such as advanced maternal age, puerperal sepsis, inadequate antenatal care, pre-existing comorbidities, and altered mentation emerge as significant predictors of poor prognosis, underscoring the importance of early identification and intervention.

However, despite the evident need, specialized obstetric intensive care provision is not up to par in many public hospitals, reflecting a systemic failure in the healthcare infrastructure. The lack of dedicated obstetric ICU facilities and universal policies governing specialist care for impending obstetric emergencies compound the issue. 

Establishing dedicated obstetric intensive care facilities staffed by multidisciplinary teams trained in intensive care management can improve outcomes for obstetric emergencies, particularly PPH. By prioritizing maternal health and investing in specialized obstetric critical care, we can significantly reduce maternal mortality rates and ensure safer childbirth experiences for women worldwide.

Chiwhane Y, Chiwhane A. Role of intensive care in management of postpartum hemorrhage (PPH). Indian J Obstet Gynecol Res 2024;11(1):1-6.