Incidence and predictors of severe postpartum hemorrhage after cesarean delivery in South Central Ethiopia: a retrospective cohort study

Severe postpartum hemorrhage is an obstetric emergency that needs immediate intervention and is a leading cause of maternal death. Despite its significant health burden, little is known, about its magnitude and risk factors, especially after cesarean delivery in Ethiopia. This study aimed to evaluate the incidence and predictors of severe postpartum hemorrhage following cesarean section. This study was conducted on 728 women who underwent cesarean section. We retrospectively collected data from the medical records, including baseline characteristics, obstetrics, and perioperative data. Potential predictors were investigated using multivariate logistic regression analyses, adjusted odd ratios, and a 95% confidence interval to see associations. A p-value < 0.05 is considered statistically significant. The incidence of severe postpartum hemorrhage was 26 (3.6%). The independently associated factors were previous CS scar ≥ 2 (AOR 4.08: 95% CI 1.20–13.86), antepartum hemorrhage (AOR 2.89: 95% CI 1.01–8.16), severe preeclampsia (AOR 4.52: 95% CI 1.24–16.46), maternal age ≥ 35 years (AOR 2.77: 95% CI 1.02–7.52), general anesthesia (AOR 4.05: 95% CI 1.37–11.95) and classic incision (AOR 6.01: 95% CI 1.51–23.98). One in 25 women who gave birth during cesarean section experienced severe postpartum hemorrhage. Considering appropriate uterotonic agents and less invasive hemostatic interventions for high-risk mothers would help to decrease its overall rate and related morbidity.