American Society of Hirudotherapy

Medical management of postpartum hemorrhage: An update.

Review published in Seminars in perinatology (2018)

Last Updated: June 18, 2026Reviewed by: ASH Editorial Board
Research article — evidence reviewArticle reference
Evidence: Narrative reviewClinical TrialsSafety & Infection ControlPacheco LD et al. · Seminars in perinatology, 2018

Abstract

Obstetrical hemorrhage is the most common cause of maternal mortality worldwide. Together with adequate surgical control and judicious transfusion of blood products, the use of pharmacological agents (e.g., tranexamic acid) and clotting factor concentrates (e.g., fibrinogen concentrates and prothrombin complex concentrates) results in improved hemostasis and decreased bleeding-associated mortality. Guidance in the administration of these agents with the use of viscoelastic testing will likely become standard of care in the near future.

Abstract sourced from PubMed (NCBI) for the cited record. See the original publication for the authoritative version.

Publication typeJournal ArticleReview
Indexed MeSH termsAntifibrinolytic AgentsBlood Coagulation FactorsBlood Coagulation TestsBlood TransfusionFemaleHemostaticsHumansMaternal MortalityObstetricsPostpartum HemorrhagePractice Guidelines as TopicPregnancy

Summary

Obstetrical hemorrhage is the most common cause of maternal mortality worldwide. Together with adequate surgical control and judicious transfusion of blood products, the use of pharmacological agents (e.g., tranexamic acid) and clotting factor concentrates (e.g., fibrinogen concentrates and prothrombin complex concentrates) results in improved hemostasis and decreased bleeding-associated mortality.

Why This Matters for Hirudotherapy

Contributes to the clinical evidence base on hemostasis, bleeding, and transfusion relevant to hirudotherapy and anticoagulant safety.

Citation

Medical management of postpartum hemorrhage: An update.

Pacheco LD et al. · Seminars in perinatology, 2018

Added to ASH library: May 28, 2026 · Site last updated: June 18, 2026

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