Final answer:
Postpartum hemorrhage is defined as blood loss exceeding 500 ml after vaginal birth or more than 1000 ml after cesarean, which can lead to hypovolemic shock. It is important to manage blood loss after childbirth and ensure the complete delivery of the placenta to prevent bleeding complications. Observing lochia stages provides indirect assessment of uterine recovery post-delivery.
Step-by-step explanation:
The classic definition of postpartum hemorrhage (PPH) is the excessive loss of blood by the birthing individual that cannot be controlled by natural hemostatic mechanisms following the delivery of a baby. This condition is typically defined as a blood loss of more than 500 ml after vaginal birth or more than 1000 ml after a cesarean section. It is a serious complication that can occur after the detachment of the placenta and if not properly managed, it can lead to hypovolemic shock.
During the postpartum period, the uterus naturally contracts to limit blood loss and facilitate involution, which is the process of the uterus returning to its pre-pregnancy size. Monitoring and managing blood loss during delivery and afterbirth are crucial for preventing PPH. Additionally, ensuring the complete delivery of the placenta and associated fetal membranes is essential because retained fragments can cause hemorrhage.
Following childbirth, the lochia discharge which consists of uterine lining cells, erythrocytes, leukocytes, and debris goes through several stages: lochia rubra, lochia serosa, and lochia alba. Observing the character and duration of lochia can provide indirect evidence of the uterus's recovery and its ability to control blood loss post-delivery. Effective management of the third stage of childbirth, breast feedings contribution to uterine contraction, and the manual removal of a retained placenta are all interventions to prevent and control postpartum hemorrhage.