Primary Postpartum Haemorrhage Prevention by Misoprostol & Oxytocin

Abstract

Objectives: To determine the efficacy of rectal misoprostol combined with intravenous oxytocin
for prevention of primary postpartum haemorrhage.
Methods: A total of 600 cases were included in this study. Patients were given 600mcg rectal
misoprostol and intravenous oxytocin at the delivery of anterior shoulder of baby. These patients
were followed in 24 hours for postpartum haemorrhage.
Results: In the study mean age of the patients was observed 27.1±4.9 years. Mean gestational
age was found to be 37.2±5.8 weeks. According to parity distribution, primigravida were 220
(37%), gravida 2-4 were 312 (52%) and gravida 5-6 were 68 (11%). Majority of the patients i.e.
554 (92.3%) had blood loss < 500 ml and 46 patients (7.3%) had blood loss > 500 ml. Rectal
misoprostol with intravenous oxytocin was effective in 554 patients (92.3%).
Conclusions: Rectal misoprostol combined with intravenous oxytocin is effective in the
prevention of primary postpartum haemorrhage.