Postpartum hemorrhage

Postpartum hemorrhage is the leading cause of maternal morbidity and mortality worldwide, and incidence in the United States, although lower than in some resource-limited countries, remains high. Women of color are at a disproportionate risk of developing a life-threatening postpartum hemorrhage. Risk assessment tools are available but because they lack specificity and sensitivity, all pregnant women are considered at risk. Early identification of and intervention in a hemorrhage requires an interdisciplinary team approach to care and can save the lives of thousands of women each year.