Keywords
Critical care
Intensive Care Unit
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Abstract
Objective: Provide a comprehensive overview of the management strategies for postpartum hemorrhage (PPH) in intensive care, addressing diagnosis and pharmacological and non-surgical interventions. Literature review: PPH is defined as excessive blood loss after childbirth and accounts for 25% of maternal deaths worldwide. Despite advances in obstetric care, PPH remains a life-threatening emergency requiring rapid identification and intervention to prevent severe complications. Uterine atony is the leading cause of PPH, making the active management of the third stage of labor essential for prevention. Uterotonics such as oxytocin and carbetocin are effective, and the use of tranexamic acid reduces maternal mortality in severe cases. Interventional approaches like intrauterine balloons and thromboelastometry complement treatment, while restrictive fluid replacement and cell saver devices are recommended in critical situations. Final considerations: Proper training and the implementation of standardized protocols for managing PPH in obstetric intensive care are mandatory. There is a need to improve care practices considering the increasing demand for critical obstetric care. The integration of skills from different medical specialties is essential to enhance maternal outcomes in the context of PPH.
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