Predicting Postpartum Haemorrhage: A Systematic Review of Prognostic Models

Abstract

(Aust N Z J Obstet Gynaecol. 2022;62:813–825) The impact of postpartum hemorrhage (PPH, loss of ≥500 mL blood within 24 h of birth) on women, families, and communities is significant. PPH has been reported with increasing incidence and severity in well-resourced countries and is a major contributor to global maternal morbidity and mortality. Diagnosis can be challenging due to variability of risk factors and underestimation of blood loss leading to delayed response and treatment. Prognostic models to identify patients at risk and to provide resources and facilitate early intervention are not commonly integrated into clinical practice. Few, if any, are considered validated for use in the general obstetric population. This systematic review provides a comprehensive evaluation of current PPH prognostic models to identify best practices for prediction, describe model characteristics, and compare performance.