Motherwort combined with oxytocin in the prevention of postpartum hemorrhage and the acceleration of uterine restoration

Abstract

Objective To explore the effective methods for the prevention of postpartum hemorrhage and the acceleration of uterine restoration.Methods 126 women at high-risks of postpartum hemorrhage after Cesarean section were randomly assigned to receive motherwort combined with oxytocin (63 women,study group)or oxytocin alone(63 women,control group ). The intraoperative and postoperative vaginal bleeding volumes were compared between the two groups,so was the average decreased height of the fundus to determine uterine restoration.Results The bleeding volumes were significantly less in the study group than in the control group intraoperatively,and at hours 2,12,24,and 48(P＜0.05). 5 days after treatment,the daily decreased height of fundus was greater in the study group than in the control group(P＜0.05).The speed of the decrease in fundus was quicker in the study group(P＜0.05).Conclusions Oxytocin has a rapid onset of action and a shorter half-life while motherwort has a longer half-life and a slow action.The combination therapy has a synergistic action.It Can strengthen uterine contraction,accelerate uterine restoration,and revent postpartum hemorrhage,and is safe. Key words: Cesarean section; Postpartum hemorrhage; Motherwort injection; Oxytocin; Uterine restoration