Tranexamic acid for childbirth: why, when, and for whom

Introduction: Postpartum hemorrhage (PPH) is a major cause of maternal death and severe maternal morbidity after childbirth. Areas covered: Tranexamic acid, an antifibrinolytic agent, reduces bleeding-related mortality in women with PPH, especially when administered shortly after delivery, and is consequently recommended in this situation (1g intravenously with a second dose of 1 g if bleeding continues), even in high income countries where the magnitude of the effect of tranexamic is uncertain. Expert opinion: Pharmacovigilance surveys are warranted in high income areas to ensure that this new policy for the treatment of PPH is not associated to rare but severe adverse events such as renal failure. The evidence remains insufficient to recommend the universal use of tranexamic acid for prevention of postpartum hemorrhage after both vaginal and cesarean deliveries.