Postpartum Hemorrhage Definition and Management

PPH defined as: blood loss >500 mL after vaginal delivery or >1,000 mL after cesarean delivery (ACOG), or any blood loss causing hemodynamic instability. Primary PPH occurs within 24 hours; secondary PPH at 24 hours to 12 weeks. Management: uterotonic agents (oxytocin, ergometrine, carboprost, misoprostol), bimanual compression, intrauterine balloon, surgical (B-Lynch, hysterectomy).

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Clinical Guidance

BMI is a screening measure of body size, not a direct measure of body fat. The standard WHO categories are underweight (<18.5), normal (18.5–24.9), overweight (25–29.9), and obese (≥30).

BMI can overestimate body fat in athletes with high muscle mass and underestimate it in older adults with low muscle mass. Interpret it alongside waist circumference and clinical context rather than as a standalone diagnosis.

⚕ Clinical Disclaimer: These calculators are for educational and reference purposes only. Always verify results with qualified clinical judgment and current clinical guidelines. Do not use as a sole basis for medical decisions.
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How It Works

PPH defined as: blood loss >500 mL after vaginal delivery or >1,000 mL after cesarean delivery (ACOG), or any blood loss causing hemodynamic instability. Primary PPH occurs within 24 hours; secondary PPH at 24 hours to 12 weeks. Management: uterotonic agents (oxytocin, ergometrine, carboprost, misoprostol), bimanual compression, intrauterine balloon, surgical (B-Lynch, hysterectomy)

Each component has a specific meaning:

  • Hemodynamic instability — The hemodynamic instability recorded for the scenario being assessed.

Note: Interpret the postpartum hemorrhage result against the thresholds and context described above.

How to Use

Enter the hemodynamic instability for the scenario you are assessing. PPH defined as: blood loss >500 mL after vaginal delivery or >1,000 mL after cesarean delivery (ACOG), or any blood loss causing hemodynamic instability. Primary PPH occurs within 24 hours; secondary PPH at 24 hours to 12 weeks. Management: uterotonic agents (oxytocin, ergometrine, carboprost, misoprostol), bimanual compression, intrauterine balloon, surgical (B-Lynch, hysterectomy). Use the postpartum hemorrhage result to inform your calculation.

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Frequently Asked Questions