Understanding the experiences and needs of women and support persons after postpartum haemorrhage.

Postpartum haemorrhage (PPH) remains a leading cause of maternal mortality and morbidity worldwide. In high-income countries, it is often preventable and, when it occurs, is usually managed effectively through early recognition and prompt treatment. Although most women survive PPH in these settings, the event can be frightening and traumatic for both women and their support persons. Primary PPH is defined as blood loss exceeding 500 ml within 24 hours of birth. Its main causes are uterine atony, retained tissue, genital tract trauma, and clotting disorders - commonly known as the “Four T’s”: tone, tissue, trauma, and thrombin. Uterine atony is the most frequent cause. Effective management relies on strong teamwork and communication among clinicians. This study explores women’s and support persons’ experiences to inform improvements in intrapartum care and the development of a postnatal follow-up service in collaboration with Monash Health.