Maternity staff’s knowledge, practices and associated factors to enhance care to women following a primary postpartum haemorrhage

Fitzgerald, Imelda; McKernan, Joye; O'Connell, Rhona; Greene, Richard

Maternity staff’s knowledge, practices and associated factors to enhance care to women following a primary postpartum haemorrhage

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Fitzgerald_September2025.pdf(225.13 KB)

Published Version

Date

2025

Authors

Fitzgerald, Imelda

McKernan, Joye

O'Connell, Rhona

Greene, Richard

Abstract

Introduction: Primary postpartum haemorrhage (PPH) is a leading cause of maternal morbidity and mortality globally. While clinical efforts often focus on the immediate physical management of PPH — such as controlling bleeding and stabilising vital signs — there is growing recognition of the broader spectrum of care that women require in the aftermath of such a traumatic event. Holistic recovery from PPH extends beyond physical stabilisation to include emotional support and the provision of clear, compassionate information, all of which are critical to a woman’s overall wellbeing and long-term health. Method: Taking a co-design approach, three focus group interviews were held with experienced midwives and consultant obstetricians, and a workshop with doctors in training (DIT), to collect data over a six-month period. Qualitative descriptive interviews were undertaken with subsequent content analysis. In total, 33 multidisciplinary team (MDT) staff from a large maternity hospital in the south of Ireland participated in the study, with a focus on care after a postpartum haemorrhage (PPH). Results: Several suggested improvements of care were identified: individualised care to women regardless of volume of blood loss; all women to be provided with a debrief at different stages according to their needs; additional education for the MDT to provide woman-centred care; and the development of an information booklet for women with suggested advice on ways to care for themselves physically and emotionally. Conclusion: This study has highlighted the importance of involving staff to gain perspective and professional suggestions for improving care in the maternity services. The findings from this study will be used to develop a care pathway for women following a PPH.

Keywords

SDG 3 - Good Health and Well-being , Co-design , Care pathway , Primary PPH , Woman-centred approach , Multidisciplinary team , [Medicine]

Citation

Fitzgerald, I., Mckernan, J., O'Connell, R. and Greene, R. (2025) 'Maternity staff’s knowledge, practices and associated factors to enhance care to women following a primary postpartum haemorrhage', MIDIRS Midwifery Digest, 35(3), pp. 279-287.