Final answer:
The most common cause of postpartum hemorrhage is uterine atony, where the uterus fails to contract after birth. Retained placenta and placenta previa are also risk factors. It's critical for healthcare providers to monitor these conditions to prevent hemorrhage.
Step-by-step explanation:
Postpartum hemorrhage (PPH) is a critical condition that can occur after childbirth, with the most common cause being
uterine atony, where the uterus fails to contract effectively after the delivery of the baby. It is vital that the
obstetrician examines the expelled placenta and fetal membranes to ensure they are intact, as retained fragments in the uterus can lead to hemorrhage. Breastfeeding can facilitate the process of involution, assisting in returning the uterus to its pre-pregnancy size and reducing the risk of PPH. Additionally, the occurrence of lochia, a normal postpartum discharge, should not be confused with PPH. Conditions such as placenta previa and retained placenta are also associated risks for antepartum and postpartum hemorrhage, respectively.