Effect of Maternal Body Mass Index on Postpartum Hemorrhage

Abstract

( Anesthesiology . 2018;128:774–783) While postpartum hemorrhage is a leading cause of maternal morbidity and has been on the rise, only a small portion of its incidence can be explained by well-known risk factors including placenta previa, multiple gestation, and polyhydramnios. To improve risk assessment, other risk factors should be identified. Maternal obesity has also become more prevalent, and some data suggest obese women may have an increased risk of postpartum hemorrhage. This study aimed to investigate the possible link between maternal obesity and postpartum hemorrhage. In addition, the effect of maternal body mass index (BMI) and delivery mode on risk of hemorrhage was examined.