Quantification of Blood Loss Improves Detection of Postpartum Hemorrhage and Accuracy of Postpartum Hemorrhage Rates

OBJECTIVES: 1. To accurately estimate the amount of blood loss following a natural labour 2. To compare the efficacy of visual estimation and objective measurement using a sterile under buttock drape to determine the volume of postpartum blood loss. MATERIALS AND METHODS: STUDY DESIGN – observational study. STUDY PERIOD – MAY 2021 to OCTOBER 2021. STUDY DURATION – 6 months. STUDY SETTING – hospital based. SAMPLE SIZE – 200. STUDY SUBJECTS: Normal deliveries held in Kilpauk Medical College Hospital during the period of May 2021 - Octorber 2021. INCLUSION CRITERIA: Gestational age >3 4 weeks Age >18 years, Past history of hypothyroid, anaemia treated, diabetic, asthmatic, epileptic, Twin pregnancies, Anemic patients, Polyhydramios. EXCLUSION CRITERIA: Gestational age < 3 4 weeks, Age < 18 years, Known case of Preeclampsia and eclampsia. CONCLUSION: Although visual estimation of blood loss remains more economical, easier and practical, it is highly underestimating and identification of postpartum haemorrhage has been missed. Thus quantification of blood loss by drape method remains a superior method for identifying and treating PPH and thereby saving the country’s MMR. When quantitative blood loss is included as a component of a bundle of practices that focus on prevention and early diagnosis of excessive blood loss, it may improve haemorrhage diagnosis and response time. Hospitals that participate in quality improvement activities can improve haemorrhage outcomes by effectively utilising this strategy. LIMITATIONS: Blood loss up to 1000 ml can only be estimated. Beyond that the above drape doesn’t support. The soaked cotton rolls and gauze pieces contribute to a minor changes in estimating blood loss