When is perineal repair recommended for postpartum haemorrhage?

Postpartum haemorrhage can have more than one cause. After stabilising you, the birth team checks the perineum, vagina, cervix, and uterus. A tear may need repair when bleeding comes from damaged tissue, while medicines or other procedures may be needed if the uterus is not contracting or placental tissue remains. Repair closes the injured area and supports control of local bleeding; it does not treat every cause of haemorrhage.

The team may provide pain relief or anaesthesia, inspect the wound carefully, and use dissolvable stitches. Tell clinicians about dizziness, medicines, allergies, previous bleeding problems, and your feeding plans. After treatment, follow instructions about wound care, rest, pain relief, fluids, and bowel movements. Keep the planned review so healing and blood loss can be checked.

Heavy or increasing bleeding after birth, faintness, shortness of breath, a racing heartbeat, confusion, severe weakness, or severe abdominal or perineal pain needs emergency assessment. Call emergency services or go to an emergency department; do not drive yourself if you feel faint.

Ask whether the tear caused the bleeding, what other causes were checked, which repair and anaesthetic were used, how blood loss is being monitored, and which symptoms mean you should return urgently.