What is Postpartum Haemorrhage (PPH)?

‘Postpartum haemorrhage’ is the term used for an excessive blood loss after having a baby. If this happens within 24 hours of the birth this is called a primary postpartum haemorrhage, and if more than 24 hours after the birth it is called a secondary PPH.

‘Excessive blood loss’ is usually taken to be 500mls (about a pint) and if it is over 1000mls (about 2 pints) this may regarded as a major PPH, although definitions vary. However, it can be hard to measure blood loss accurately so the amount of the blood loss is often taken as a warning that there may be a problem and treatment given on depending on how well the woman is coping.