Evaluation of factors that contributes to post-partum haemorrhage in Pregnant Women at KIU-TH

Abstract

Postpartum haemorrhage (PPH) is the world’s leading cause of maternal death and accounts for an estimated 127,000 deaths each year. Identification of some of the risk factors such as; previous postpartum haemorrhage, multiple pregnancies, macrosomia, induction of labour, operative vaginal deliveries and cesarean section would help in preventing PPH. The aim of this research was to assess the factors contributing to postpartum haemorrhage (PPH) among pregnant women who attend delivery services in Kampala International University Teaching Hospital (KIU-TH). This study used a crosssectional descriptive design where by a cross-section of respondents involving 68 respondents were sampled to represent the target population, in these case women who received maternity service from KIU-TH. Only quantitative methods of data collection using questionnaires with closed ended questions were employed for both mothers and health workers. During the study period, 58 women who delivered in the unit and 20 women developed postpartum haemorrhage giving the frequency of postpartum haemorrhage 34.6%. The majority of the women 30% were between 30-34 years of age. Among the women who developed PPH retained placental tissues was the most common cause 50% followed by uterine atony which was 30%. The rest of the causes of PPH were laceration 20%. Postpartum haemorrhage is still a leading but preventable cause of maternal morbidity and mortality in our country due to underutilization of health facilities, the major cause is retained placental tissues followed by uterine atony. Keywords: post-partum haemorrhage, pregnant women, delivering, Uganda