Tranexamic acid for bleeding: Much more than a treatment for postpartum hemorrhage

The evidence that early tranexamic acid treatment reduces postpartum hemorrhage deaths has major implications for obstetrical care worldwide. Tranexamic acid may also have a role in the prevention of postpartum hemorrhage, but more evidence is needed on the balance of risks and benefits. Most deaths from postpartum hemorrhage are in low- and middle-income countries where tranexamic acid treatment is often unavailable. Several maternal health organizations including the Reproductive Health Supplies Coalition, Clinton Health Access Initiative, Concept Foundation, International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics, and Unitaid are working to increase access. However, a wider view of the evidence on tranexamic acid and bleeding shows that it can improve maternal health in many other ways. An appreciation of these other health benefits could facilitate efforts to increase access. By reducing heavy menstrual bleeding, tranexamic acid could reduce the prevalence of maternal anemia, a common and important risk factor for postpartum hemorrhage and other maternal and neonatal outcomes. Further clinical trials of tranexamic acid for the treatment of menstrual bleeding are needed. By reducing surgical bleeding and the need for blood transfusion, tranexamic acid would increase the availability of blood in countries where there is blood shortage so that more blood is available for use in life-threatening bleeding including postpartum hemorrhage. In countries where there is no blood shortage, tranexamic acid use would reduce healthcare costs and prevent transfusion-transmitted infections and reactions. Trauma affects women and men, and violence is a leading cause of death in pregnancy. Increased use of tranexamic acid in trauma would significantly reduce trauma deaths. Efforts to increase the availability and use of tranexamic acid for obstetrical hemorrhage should acknowledge its other health benefits and aim to increase its use across health services more generally.