Maternal Obesity and Postpartum Hemorrhage in Women Undergoing Cesarean Delivery: A Retrospective Cohort Study

Objective: Postpartum hemorrhage (PPH) is one of the most common causes of maternal death.Our objective was to determine whether an association exists between maternal obesity and increased risk of PPH. Materials and Methods:Women who underwent cesarean delivery between July 2022 and June 2023 were evaluated retrospectively.The patients were divided into two groups according to their body mass index (BMI): Group 1 had a BMI 30 kg/m (n=82), and Group 2 had a BMI <30 kg/m (n=109).Demographic features, duration and mode of placental separation, and amount of PPH were recorded.To measure blood loss, the weight of surgical gauze sponges used during the procedure and the volume of blood aspirated via surgical suction were recorded.Results: Postpartum blood loss was compared between the groups, but the difference was not statistically significant.Obesity is often considered a risk factor for PPH.Our study did not provide supporting data regarding the increased risk of obesity.Risk assessment scores for PPH have been proposed, but many women who experience severe hemorrhage have scores indicating a low risk. Conclusion:Obesity is a risk factor for many obstetric complications; therefore, clinicians should be more alert.Nevertheless, obstetricians should be prepared for PPH regardless of the BMI of the pregnant individual.