Management of obstetric hemorrhage

Major obstetric hemorrhage is an extremely challenging obstetric emergency associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Pharmacological treatment of uterine atony has not altered much in recent years apart from the increasing use ofmisoprostol, although controversy surrounds its advantages over other uterotonics. Placenta accreta is becoming more common, a sequel to the rising caesarean section rate. Interventional radiology may reduce blood loss in these cases. Uterine compression sutures, intrauterine tamponade balloons and cell salvage have been introduced in the last decade.