In many Ugandan homes, the birth of a child is a moment of joy, thanksgiving, and celebration. But behind the songs and ululations, some mothers face a silent and life-threatening condition, Postpartum Hemorrhage (PPH), or excessive bleeding after childbirth.
At St. John XXIII Hospital Aber, we witness this reality closely. During the month of August, our hospital joined the national and global movement to raise awareness and strengthen the response to Postpartum Hemorrhage (PPH), one of the leading causes of maternal death in Uganda and across Sub-Saharan Africa.
Through a series of staff trainings, community outreaches, health education sessions, and media engagements, we amplified one powerful message: “No mother should die while giving life.”
🩸 Understanding Postpartum Hemorrhage
Postpartum Hemorrhage is defined as excessive bleeding after childbirth, specifically:
- Loss of 500ml or more of blood following a vaginal delivery, or
- 1000ml or more following a cesarean section.
PPH may occur within the first 24 hours after birth (primary PPH) or up to 6 weeks postpartum (secondary PPH). While some blood loss is normal during delivery, PPH represents a life-threatening emergency that requires immediate medical intervention.
The most common cause of PPH is uterine atony, when the uterus fails to contract after delivery. Other causes include retained placenta, birth canal injuries, and blood clotting problems. Without urgent treatment, PPH can quickly lead to shock, organ failure, and death. Preparedness and rapid action are therefore critical.
Context and Why is This a Big Problem?
Globally, PPH is the leading cause of maternal deaths, responsible for nearly one in every four maternal deaths. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that over 70,000 women die every year from complications linked to excessive bleeding after childbirth, and the majority of these deaths occur in low- and middle-income countries.
Uganda reflects this global challenge in stark terms. PPH remains the number one cause of maternal death in the country, contributing to about 34% of all maternal mortality cases. Rural districts like Oyam face an even higher burden because:
- Many mothers still deliver at home or in health facilities without emergency obstetric care.
- Delays in transport make it hard for women to reach hospitals on time.
- Shortages of life-saving drugs and blood supplies are common.
- Community awareness of PPH danger signs remains low.
The tragedy is that these deaths are largely preventable. With skilled health workers, timely emergency care, community education, and proper preparedness, mothers can survive and return home safely to their families.
🚩 Warning Signs You Should Never Ignore
If you or someone you love has recently given birth, watch for:
- Bleeding that soaks more than one pad per hour
- Large clots or a constant flow of blood
- Dizziness, weakness, or fainting
- Rapid heartbeat, cold hands, or pale skin
- Swelling or severe pain in the lower abdomen
These are danger signs. Rush to the nearest hospital / Health center immediately.
Highlights from August PPH Awareness Activities
Throughout August, St. John XXIII Hospital Aber carried out a range of activities to strengthen internal capacity, engage the community, and spread lifesaving information
- Strengthening Health Worker Knowledge and Skills
- Continuous Medical Education (CME): Both general and departmental sessions were held, focusing on PPH. Staff were reminded of the danger PPH poses and best practices for management.
- Grand Rounds: A case of a PPH near-miss was presented, with lessons emphasizing that emergency preparedness is key and EMOTIVE (Emergency readiness, Motivation, Teamwork, Immediate action, Vigilance, and Education).
- Two-day refresher training: Our Staff received practical updates on PPH management, ensuring every team member is ready to respond when emergencies arise.
- Community Sensitization and Engagement
- Hospital entry-point education: Every person who came to the hospital in August, whether as a patient, caregiver, or visitor, received health education on PPH.
- Community outreaches: Our teams visited Kamdini and Loro markets, Wirao, Aleny, Woo Bala Kuc, and local churches across Oyam District. We educated communities on PPH, while also offering blood pressure screening, diabetes checks, and HIV testing services.
- Radio talk show: We hosted a two-hour program on Radio Wa, enabling thousands of community members across Lango sub region and neighboring districts to learn about PPH, its signs, and where to seek help.
What We Can All Do to Save Mothers’ Lives?
You may not be a doctor or nurse, but you have the power to save a life. Here’s how:
- Encourage mothers to attend antenatal care (ANC):
Let every pregnant woman attend all her visits. It’s where we teach them how to prepare for a safe delivery and identify danger signs early. - Support skilled delivery at health facilities:
Don’t let mothers deliver alone at home or with untrained birth attendants. Delivering at a health center or a hospital like St. John XXIII Hospital Aber ensures access to emergency help if anything goes wrong. - Prepare transport ahead of time:
If labor starts, be ready to take the mother to a health Centre or hospital. Don’t wait until it’s too late. Even a boda-boda can save a life if used early. - Recognize that bleeding is not always normal:
Even days or weeks after delivery, heavy bleeding is a red flag. Don’t rely on herbs or local remedies. Go straight to the health center or hospital. - Men, be involved:
Husbands, brothers, and fathers, you are protectors. Make sure your wife or sister gives birth at a safe place. Budget for emergencies. Help her rest and recover after birth. - Local leaders, be champions of safe motherhood:
We call upon local politicians and community leaders to emphasize this message to the people in their constituencies. By encouraging pregnant mothers to attend ANC visits and highlighting the importance of delivering at a hospital or health Centre, leaders can set an example and strengthen community commitment to saving mothers’ lives.
Final Word: Let’s Break the Silence Around PPH
Too often, stories of maternal death are whispered in regret. A mother lost. A child left motherless. A family changed forever.
But it doesn’t have to be this way. With awareness, access, and action, we can stop PPH from stealing more lives.
Our Ongoing Commitment
At St. John XXIII Hospital Aber, we remain dedicated to:
- Providing safe delivery services with skilled health workers available 24/7.
- Continuing education, outreach, and partnerships to strengthen awareness.
- Supporting the Ministry of Health and the global movement to reduce maternal mortality and ensure safe motherhood.
Visit St. John XXIII Hospital Aber for antenatal care, safe delivery, and emergency maternal services.
For inquiries or referrals, Please contact US on 0772 637 707.
