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By Godwin Abedican Arua The obstetricians and gynecologists across the world under their bodies International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics (FIGO) and the International Confederation of Midwives (ICM), with World health organization have officially d
By Godwin Abedican
Arua
The obstetricians and gynecologists across the world under their bodies International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics (FIGO) and the International Confederation of Midwives (ICM), with World health organization have officially designated and declared the 5th of October as the World Postpartum hemorrhage (PPH) day to be commemorated annually.
Postpartum hemorrhage is significant blood loss after childbirth, a leading cause of maternal death worldwide that requires prompt recognition and management.
In a telephone interview with radio Pacis from Cape Town South Africa, Dr. Afoyo victor the coordinator for Arua local maternity and new born system LMNS for west Nile who is currently part of experts attending this year’s annual International Federation of Gynaecology and Obstetrics conference (FIGO) where global experts converge to advance women's health says given the high burden of post birth deaths among mothers within the region such a special day stands as a footstool for awareness among the population and stake holders.
“We are saying world PPH day simply because we want to recognize the day as a special day just like we have other days being defined by the world. We Have World Heath Organization here with us and they are in support and participation towards this. Actually, it has been recognized that, bleeding after birth (Postpartum Hemorrhage) is the main killer of women worldwide,” Dr. Afoya revealed to radio Pacis.
According to World Health Organization, PPH affects millions of women annually and causes nearly 45 000 deaths, making it one of the leading causes of maternal mortality globally. Even when not fatal, it can lead to lifelong physical and mental health impacts, from major organ damage to hysterectomies, anxiety and trauma.
Dr. Afoyo has therefore called on the public not to abandon the fight against PPH to only the health workers.
“Apart from recognizing this day, as Uganda, right from homes ad to the health facilities, people need to learn top prepare to ensure that mothers don’t die of this bleeding. It will be very good if the public joins hands with the health facilities and health workers to proclaim about this killer” he said.
“The unfortunate bit will be if the community is not able to listen to the media and the health workers, then we will continue to register these deaths. But by having listening ears in all corners even in the market places and in churches, will save a lot of lives” Dr. Afayo added.
The idea for World PPH Day emerged from the WHO Roadmap (2023–2030) to Combat Postpartum Haemorrhage, which called for bold, unifying advocacy to keep the fight against PPH at the top of the global health agenda.