Final answer:
To treat excessive bleeding during birth, it's essential to ensure complete expulsion of the placenta and address any retained fragments. Uterine contractions and breastfeeding help reduce bleeding. Medical interventions might include uterotonics, manual removal of placenta remnants, suturing tears, or surgical procedures.
Step-by-step explanation:
How to Treat Excessive Bleeding During Birth
Treating excessive bleeding during birth, also known as postpartum hemorrhage, is a critical part of managing third stage labor. The obstetrician must first ensure that the placenta and fetal membranes have been completely expelled from the uterus. Any retained fragments can cause bleeding and should be removed. After the birth, uterine contractions aid in minimizing blood loss and facilitate the process of involution, which returns the uterus and abdominal organs to their pre-pregnancy state and size. Breastfeeding is also encouraged as it promotes uterine contractions, assisting in reducing bleeding. It is important to monitor the nature of vaginal discharge post-birth, known as lochia, which transitions from lochia rubra to lochia serosa, and finally to lochia alba over the weeks following childbirth.
If excessive bleeding occurs, it requires prompt medical attention where treatments may include uterotonics to stimulate contractions, manual exploration to remove retained placenta, repair of any genital tract tears, or surgical interventions if necessary. Maintaining a clear airway for the newborn is essential, along with proper umbilical cord clamping, to ensure that the second stage of childbirth is also adequately managed. All these measures are vital to ensure the safe delivery of the baby and the well-being of the birthing person.