Effect of Tranexamic Acid on Primary Postpartum Haemorrhage in at Risk Women at Abuth, Zaria: A Randomized Controlled Study

Abstract

Background: Postpartum haemorrhage is an obstetric nightmare. Although it may occur in women with no identified risk, women with certain risk profiles are at increased risk PPH. Tranexamic acid has been shown to be effective in low risk women. Aim: To compare the effectiveness of Tranexamic acid to placebo in preventing PPH in at-risk women following vaginal delivery. Research Methods: The study was a randomized controlled trial at ABUTH, Zaria, in which 334 women identified as being at risk for PPH, were sequentially randomized into Tranexamic and placebo groups of 167 each. The Tranexamic acid group received intravenous 1g Tranexamic acid made up to 20ml with 0.9% Normal saline, while the placebo group received 20ml 0.9% Normal saline at delivery. Both groups received I.M 10IU oxytocin as part of AMTSL protocol. Blood loss was collected objectively in a blood collection drape at delivery.