Effect of Sustained Uterine Compression versus Uterine Massage on Blood Loss after Vaginal Delivery: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Abstract

Objective This study aimed to compare the effectiveness of sustained uterine compression versus uterine massage in reducing blood loos after a vaginal delivery.

Study Design This was a prospective randomized trial conducted at the American University of Beirut Medical Center (AUBMC) between October 2015 and October 2017. Inclusion criteria were women with a singleton pregnancy at ≥36 weeks of gestation, with less than three previous deliveries, who were candidates for vaginal delivery. Participants were randomized into two groups, a sustained uterine compression group (group 1) and a uterine massage group (group 2). Incidence of postpartum hemorrhage (blood loss of ≥500 mL) was the primary outcome. We assumed that the incidence of postpartum hemorrhage at our institution is similar to previously published studies. A total of 545 women were required in each arm to detect a reduction from 9.6 to 4.8% in the primary outcome (50% reduction) with a one-sided α of 0.05 and a power of 80%. Factoring in a 10% dropout rate. Secondary outcomes were admission to intensive care unit (ICU), postpartum complications, drop in hemoglobin, duration of hospital stay, maternal pain, use of uterotonics, or of surgical procedure for postpartum hemorrhage.

Results A total of 550 pregnant women were recruited, 273 in group 1 and 277 in group 2. There was no statistically significant difference in baseline characteristics between the two groups. Type of anesthesia, rate of episiotomy, lacerations, and mean birth weight were also equal between the groups. Incidence of the primary outcome was not different between the two groups (group 1: 15.5%, group 2: 15.4%; p = 0.98). There was no statistically significant difference in any of the secondary outcomes between the two groups, including drop in hemoglobin (p = 0.79).

Conclusion There was no difference in blood loss between sustained uterine compression and uterine massage after vaginal delivery.

Key Points

• Transabdominal uterine compression and uterine massage are appropriate to prevent postpartum hemorrhage.

• No significant difference in blood loss or maternal discomfort observed between the two techniques.

• Both methods are equally effective and either one can be used based on provider preference.

Keywords

blood loss - uterine compression - uterine massage

Clinical Trial Registration

This study was registered under ClinicalTrials.gov, identifier number: NCT02396771.

Condensation

Sustained uterine compression and uterine massage were equivalent with respect to the amount of blood loss after vaginal delivery.

Publication History

Received: 11 December 2020

Accepted: 04 October 2021

Article published online:
14 November 2021

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