Abstract: Background: Antepartum hemorrhage (APH) is characterized by bleeding originating from or into the genital tract, occurring from 24 weeks of gestation until the onset of labor. The objective of this study is to assess the incidence, etiological factors, and maternal and fetal outcomes associated with APH.
Methods: The Tikrit Teaching Hospital Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology conducted a cross-sectional study from October 1, 2023, to June 30, 2024. An easy sample of 50 antepartum haemorrhages was obtained. Emergency antepartum haemorrhage patients with vaginal bleeding after 24 weeks of gestation are eligible. Ultrasound has detected placenta previa, abruptio placentae, placenta accreta, and others as antepartum haemorrhage beyond 24 weeks.
Results: Most women had 1-4 parity 35 (70%) and > 5 parity 10 (20%), BMI 25-29.9 excess weight 39 (78%) and > 30 obesity 11 (22%). Medical history was positive in 16 (32%), diabetes mellitus in 1 (2%), and hypertension in 16 (32%). APH causes were unknown for 3 (6%), placenta previa 23 (46%), abruption 13 (26%), and accrete 22%. Previous scare 36(72%), gestational hypertension 13(26%), 8(16%), twin pregnancy 2(4%), age >35 11(22%), mal-presentation 8(16%). Maternal outcomes were Caesarean hysterectomy (4%), postpartum anaemia (54%), blood transfusion (72%), blood units received (≤ 2 in 58%, ≥3 in 14%), caesarian section (88%), and no maternal deaths. Neonatal outcomes included low birth weight (30%), stillbirth (2%), birth asphyxia (6%), ICU admission (46%), and preterm (54%).
Conclusion: To prevent harm to women and newborns, labour and delivery facilities must provide complete assistance. This includes ensuring the facility has well-organised equipment and friendly staff. In addition, it is important to quickly identify potential complications, prepare families for blood donation in the event of a blood transfusion, have skilled anaesthesia staff, and have all necessary human resources to manage antepartum haemorrhage.
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