AN INVESTIGATION INTO THE OCCURRENCE AND OUTCOMES OF POSTPARTUM HEMORRHAGE AMONG WOMEN DELIVERING AT C. B. DUNBAR HOSPITAL, BONG COUNTY, LIBERIA

ABSTRACT Postpartum hemorrhage (PPH) is a life-threatening complication during childbirth, defined as the loss of 500 mL or more of blood following a normal vaginal delivery or 1000 mL or more after a cesarean section. It remains the leading cause of maternal mortality worldwide, particularly in low-resource settings like Liberia, where healthcare systems often struggle to provide timely interventions. This study investigates the prevalence, causes, and outcomes of PPH among women delivering at C.B. Dunbar Hospital, Bong County, Liberia. The research utilized a retrospective chart review design, analyzing delivery records from January to December 2021. The study aimed to identify the incidence of PPH, the most affected age groups, and the key contributing factors. Data analysis revealed that PPH occurred in 3% of all deliveries at the hospital, with younger women, particularly those aged 14-19 years, showing the highest incidence of the complication. First-time mothers were also disproportionately affected, highlighting the importance of focused prenatal and delivery care for these groups. The leading cause of PPH in this study was uterine atony, accounting for 82% of the cases, followed by uterine and cervical trauma (11%) and retained placenta (7%). Despite the significant challenges posed by PPH, maternal outcomes were largely positive, with a survival rate of 98%. However, one maternal death was recorded, emphasizing the need for continued improvement in emergency obstetric care. Neonatal outcomes were similarly favorable, with 93% of babies born to mothers with PPH surviving. Nonetheless, a small percentage (7%) of neonates experienced stillbirth or intrauterine fetal demise, underscoring the potential impact of maternal health on neonatal outcomes. This research underscores the urgent need for targeted interventions to improve the management of PPH in rural Liberia, including enhanced training for healthcare providers, better access to uterotonic medications, and increased awareness among pregnant women about the risks of PPH. Keywords: Postpartum, Uterotonic, Hemorrhage, Mortality, Maternal