Postpartum hemorrhage (PPH) is a major cause of maternal mortality and morbidity worldwide. Uterine massage is thought to stimulate uterine contraction possibly through stimulation of local prostaglandin release and thus to reduce hemorrhage. The objective of the randomized trial reported here was to determine the effectiveness of intermittent uterine massage after delivery of the placenta to reduce postpartum blood loss and the need for additional uterotonics. The study was conducted in the labor ward of the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology Assiut University Hospital during June and July 2005. (excerpt)