Antepartum hemorrhage and its maternal and perinatal outcome: An experience at a hospital in North India

Abstract

Introduction and Aim: Antepartum hemorrhage (APH) is one of the deadliest complications in obstetrics. It can complicate about 2–5% of pregnancies. It contributes significantly to maternal and perinatal mortality and morbidity during pregnancy and childbearing worldwide. The aim of this study was to determine maternal and fetal outcomes in patients presenting with APH. Materials and Methods: This was a retrospective study. Pregnant women with >28 weeks gestation reporting to the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology from May 2021 to April 2022 were included in the study. Ethical approval from the institutional ethical committee was taken. Result: This study included 76 patients of APH. Most patients in the analysis were found to be second gravida (30%). Anemia was the most common associated morbidity (51.31%). 58% of these patients were of placenta previa, 14% were of abruption, and 10% were of accreta. Among all patients, 94.74% recovered well. 2.63% of cases could not be saved and resulted in maternal mortality. The proportions of babies alive, intra-uterine death (IUD), and intubated were 86.84%, 11.84%, and 1.32%, respectively. 17.1% of patients required a lifesaving cesarean hysterectomy. Conclusion: APH is an obstetrical emergency that requires timely diagnosis and early intervention. Swift management is required to improve maternal and fetal outcomes.