Postpartum hemorrhage (PPH) is a potentially life-threatening complication that occurs in some women after childbirth. It is defined as a blood loss of 500 ml or more within 24 hours after vaginal delivery, or 1000 ml or more after cesarean delivery. There are many risk factors that can increase a woman’s chances of developing PPH, some of which are discussed below:
1. Prolonged labor: One of the most common risk factors for PPH is a prolonged or difficult labor. When labor is prolonged, the uterus may become exhausted, making it less effective at contracting and causing bleeding after delivery. This risk factor is especially true in women who have been in labor for more than 24 hours or undergone an instrumental delivery.
2. Previous cesarean section: Women who have had previous cesarean deliveries are at a higher risk of developing PPH due to the presence of scar tissue in the uterus. Scar tissue can prevent the uterus from contracting normally, leading to more blood loss after delivery.
3. Placental abnormalities: Another significant risk factor for PPH is placental abnormalities, in which the placenta is not properly attached or separated from the uterus after delivery. This can lead to excessive bleeding and could require a surgical intervention.
4. Multiple gestations: Women who are pregnant with twins, triplets or other multiples have a higher risk of PPH. The uterus stretches more in a woman carrying more than one baby, making it more difficult for the uterus to contract after delivery, which can lead to blood loss.
Other factors that increase the likelihood of PPH include a history of bleeding disorders, preeclampsia (a pregnancy complication characterized by high blood pressure and organ damage), gestational diabetes, the use of certain medications, and maternal age (particularly mothers over the age of 35).
it is vital for healthcare providers to recognize these risk factors and take appropriate steps to prevent or manage PPH, ensuring a safe and healthy outcome for both mother and baby.
What are the 4 most common causes of postpartum hemorrhage?
Postpartum hemorrhage (PPH) is a life-threatening condition that occurs when there is excessive bleeding after delivery. This condition can occur in up to 5% of all deliveries, and it can lead to significant morbidity and mortality if not treated promptly. PPH can be caused by a variety of factors, including uterine atony, retained placental tissue, genital tract trauma, and coagulation disorders.
1. Uterine atony:
Uterine atony is the most common cause of PPH, accounting for up to 80% of cases. It occurs when the uterus fails to contract properly after delivery, leading to excessive bleeding. This condition can be caused by several factors, including prolonged labor, over-distention of the uterus (in cases of multiple gestation or large fetus), or drugs used during labor (such as oxytocin).
Uterine atony can be managed with medications to stimulate uterine contractions or surgical interventions.
2. Retained placental tissue:
In some cases, the placenta may not detach from the uterine wall after delivery. This condition, known as retained placental tissue, can cause excessive bleeding and can lead to PPH. Risk factors for retained placental tissue include placenta previa, placental abruption, or previous cesarean delivery.
The treatment for this condition usually involves manual removal of the placenta or suction curettage.
3. Genital tract trauma:
Genital tract trauma can also lead to PPH. This can occur due to tears or lacerations that occur during delivery or from surgical interventions, such as forceps or vacuum delivery. Women who have undergone episiotomy (an incision made in the perineum to widen the birth canal) are also at risk. Treatment for genital tract trauma may require sutures or surgical repair of the injury.
4. Coagulation disorders:
Finally, PPH can also occur due to coagulation disorders. This can be caused by a variety of factors, including maternal bleeding disorders, medications that interfere with blood clotting, or infections that affect coagulation. Women who have a history of bleeding disorders or who are using blood-thinning medications should be monitored closely for PPH.
Treatment for coagulation disorders may involve blood transfusions or medications that promote blood clotting.
There are several different causes of PPH. These include uterine atony, retained placental tissue, genital tract trauma, and coagulation disorders. Understanding and recognizing the risk factors for these conditions can help healthcare providers promptly diagnose and treat PPH, which can ultimately minimize morbidity and mortality for both the mother and infant.
What are the factors leading to PPH?
PPH, or Post-Partum Hemorrhage, is a severe condition where a woman experiences excessive bleeding following childbirth, which can lead to serious complications and even death if not addressed promptly. There are several factors that can increase the risk of PPH, including uterine atony, trauma during delivery, retained placenta or membranes, coagulopathy, and placenta previa or accreta.
Uterine atony is the most common cause of PPH, accounting for up to 80% of cases. It occurs when the uterus fails to contract effectively, leading to excessive bleeding. This can be caused by prolonged labor, an overdistended uterus, multiple pregnancies, or infections. Risk factors for uterine atony include obesity, previous PPH, and certain medications used during labor, such as oxytocin.
Trauma during delivery is another common cause of PPH, particularly when there is damage to the birth canal or perineum. This can occur when the baby is delivered vaginally, with the use of forceps or vacuum extraction, or through a cesarean section. The risk of trauma during delivery is increased in women who have undergone previous deliveries or have pre-existing conditions such as hypertension or diabetes.
Retained placenta or membranes can also lead to PPH, as the tissue can prevent the uterus from contracting effectively. This can occur when parts of the placenta or membranes are left inside the uterus after delivery, or when the uterus is unable to expel them. Placenta previa, where the placenta grows over the cervix, and placenta accreta, where the placenta grows deeply into the uterine wall, can also lead to retained placenta and increase the risk of PPH.
Coagulopathy, or a disorder of the blood clotting system, can also lead to PPH. This can be caused by pre-existing conditions such as hemophilia or von Willebrand disease, or by medications such as heparin or warfarin. Coagulopathy can also be caused by complications during delivery, such as amniotic fluid embolism or severe pre-eclampsia.
There are several factors that can lead to PPH, including uterine atony, trauma during delivery, retained placenta or membranes, coagulopathy, and placenta previa or accreta. Awareness of these risk factors, proper monitoring during labor and delivery, and prompt treatment of any complications can help reduce the risk of PPH and promote better outcomes for both mother and baby.
What is PPH risk in pregnancy?
PPH, or Postpartum Hemorrhage, is a medical condition that occurs in women during or after childbirth. It is a serious complication that can lead to severe bleeding and even death if not treated urgently. PPH risk in pregnancy refers to the probability of experiencing the condition during or after childbirth.
PPH risk factors can be broadly categorized into two groups: antepartum (before delivery) and postpartum (after delivery). Antepartum risk factors include maternal age, history of previous PPH, prolonged duration of labor, multiple pregnancies, high blood pressure, and fetal macrosomia (an excessively large baby).
Postpartum risk factors include cesarean delivery, retained placenta or membranes, uterine atony (when the uterus fails to contract normally after delivery), and clotting disorders.
The severity of PPH and the need for treatment depends on the amount of blood lost. Mild cases of PPH may resolve without medical intervention, while moderate to severe cases require immediate medical attention. Treatment options for PPH include medications to help the uterus contract and stop bleeding, manual compression of the uterus, and packing the uterus with special tampons or balloons.
In severe cases, a blood transfusion or surgery may be necessary.
Pph is a serious medical condition that requires prompt diagnosis and management to prevent serious complications. All expectant mothers should discuss the risks and symptoms of PPH with their healthcare provider, and be prepared to seek medical care for any unusual bleeding or complications during or after childbirth.
How can I prevent PPH during pregnancy?
PPH or Postpartum Hemorrhage is a serious condition in which a mother experiences excessive bleeding after giving birth. It can cause severe complications and, in extreme cases, even lead to maternal mortality. However, the good news is that PPH can be prevented with early identification of risk factors, proactive management during labor and delivery, and appropriate postnatal care.
PPH can occur due to various reasons, such as uterine atony, retained placenta, trauma during delivery, or disorders in blood coagulation. Therefore, it is essential to have regular antenatal check-ups and screenings to identify any potential risk factors that could increase the likelihood of PPH. Women with a history of PPH in previous pregnancies, multiple pregnancies, or placenta previa are at higher risk of developing PPH, and hence, need closer monitoring and management.
During labor and delivery, the health care team must be prepared to manage PPH by having the necessary equipment, medications, and personnel in place. Active management of the third stage of labor, which involves the administration of a uterotonic drug like oxytocin, can reduce the risk of PPH by contracting the uterus and preventing excessive bleeding.
Controlled cord traction and uterine massage can also help to expel the placenta and prevent retention.
In case of PPH, immediate and effective management is crucial to prevent adverse outcomes. The use of blood transfusions, surgical interventions like uterine artery ligation or hysterectomy, or other medical interventions such as tranexamic acid, can help to control bleeding and stabilize the mother’s condition.
Postnatal care is essential to prevent PPH and ensure complete recovery. Adequate hydration, good nutrition, and rest can help the mother regain her strength and avoid postpartum anemia, which is a common complication in PPH cases. Early mobilization, pelvic floor exercises, and regular check-ups can also help to identify and manage any residual bleeding or infections.
Preventing PPH during pregnancy requires a collaborative effort between the mother-to-be, healthcare provider, and support system. Early identification of risk factors, proactive management during labor and delivery, and appropriate postnatal care can significantly reduce the risk of PPH and ensure a safe and healthy transition to motherhood.
Which factor will the nurse associate with an increased risk for postpartum hemorrhage?
Postpartum hemorrhage is a potentially life-threatening condition that affects women immediately after childbirth. It is defined as excessive bleeding of 500 ml or more for vaginal delivery and 1000 ml or more for cesarean delivery. There are several factors that can increase a woman’s risk of experiencing postpartum hemorrhage, and it is essential for the nurse to be aware of these factors to provide appropriate care and prevent complications.
One of the primary risk factors for postpartum hemorrhage is uterine atony, which occurs when the uterus fails to contract and retract after delivery. This can lead to excessive bleeding and can be caused by a range of factors, including prolonged labor, fetal macrosomia, multiple gestation, and the use of certain medications during labor and delivery, such as oxytocin.
Another significant risk factor for postpartum hemorrhage is placental abnormalities, such as placenta previa and placental abruption. In these conditions, the placenta either partially or completely covers the opening of the cervix or separates from the uterine wall, leading to massive bleeding during and after delivery.
Trauma during childbirth, including tears or lacerations of the cervix or vagina, can also contribute to an increased risk of postpartum hemorrhage. Additionally, previous cesarean deliveries, obesity, and advanced maternal age can increase the risk of excessive bleeding during and after childbirth.
Finally, certain medical conditions, such as hypertension, coagulation disorders, and infections, can also increase the risk of postpartum hemorrhage. Therefore, nurses should always be vigilant in monitoring women who have these conditions during labor and delivery and be prepared to provide prompt and appropriate interventions in case of excessive bleeding.
There are several risk factors associated with an increased risk of postpartum hemorrhage, including uterine atony, placental abnormalities, childbirth trauma, and underlying medical conditions. As frontline caregivers of women during childbirth, it is critical for nurses to be knowledgeable about these factors, recognize signs of excessive bleeding, and quickly respond with appropriate interventions to prevent further complications and ensure optimal maternal and neonatal outcomes.
Is PPH the most common cause of maternal death?
No, PPH (postpartum hemorrhage) is not the most common cause of maternal death. While PPH is a serious complication that occurs after childbirth, it is estimated to cause approximately 27% of maternal deaths globally.
The most common cause of maternal death is actually pre-eclampsia/eclampsia, a life-threatening condition characterized by high blood pressure during pregnancy. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), pre-eclampsia/eclampsia is responsible for approximately 14% of maternal deaths worldwide.
Other leading causes of maternal mortality include sepsis, obstructed labor, and unsafe abortion. These causes can vary depending on geographic region and access to adequate healthcare. For example, sepsis is often more common in low-income countries where women may not have access to clean birthing conditions or proper medical care.
It is important to note that maternal mortality rates have decreased in recent years, however, there is still much work to be done to reach the Sustainable Development Goal of reducing maternal mortality rates to less than 70 per 100,000 live births by 2030. This can be achieved through increased access to skilled birthing attendants, improvements in emergency obstetric care, and better health education for women.
Is C section a risk for PPH?
Yes, having a C-section carries an increased risk for postpartum hemorrhage (PPH). PPH is defined as excessive bleeding (more than 500 mL) after delivery, and in severe cases, it can be life-threatening. C-sections account for a significant portion of PPH cases, which is why obstetricians take precautions and closely monitor patients who have a C-section.
There are several reasons why C-sections increase the risk for PPH. During a vaginal delivery, the uterus undergoes contractions that help to stop bleeding by compressing the blood vessels. In contrast, during a C-section, the uterus is removed from the abdominal cavity and is then sutured closed. This can cause blood vessels to remain open, leading to bleeding.
Additionally, C-sections involve more trauma to the uterus, which can cause the blood vessels to rupture and bleed excessively.
Other risk factors for PPH include a history of PPH or bleeding disorders, multiple gestations, large fetal size or macrosomia, preterm delivery, prolonged labor, and the use of assisted delivery methods such as forceps or vacuum extraction. It’s important to note that not all women who have a C-section experience PPH, and women who have vaginal deliveries can also develop PPH.
However, the risk is higher for those who have a C-section.
To prevent PPH, obstetricians may administer medications to stimulate uterine contractions or reduce the risk of bleeding. They may also use uterine massage or manual removal of the placenta to help the uterus contract and release any remaining tissue. In severe cases, a blood transfusion or surgical intervention may be necessary to control the bleeding.
Women who have a C-section should provide their obstetrician with a complete medical history and inform them of any risk factors for bleeding disorders or PPH. They should also work closely with their healthcare providers to ensure a safe and healthy delivery.
What percentage of maternal deaths are due to PPH?
Postpartum hemorrhage (PPH) is a leading cause of maternal mortality worldwide. PPH is a medical emergency characterized by excessive bleeding following childbirth, which occurs within 24 hours of delivery. The prevalence of PPH is estimated to be around 6-10% globally, and it has been reported to cause between 25-33% of all maternal deaths globally.
It is important to recognize that the percentage of maternal deaths due to PPH varies across regions and countries. However, PPH remains a major cause of maternal mortality in both high-income and low-income countries. In high-income countries, the majority of maternal deaths due to PPH are related to delayed diagnosis and treatment as well as substandard management of care during and after delivery.
In contrast, in low-income countries, maternal deaths due to PPH are often attributed to inadequate access to emergency obstetric care, postpartum hemorrhage prevention, and treatment.
According to a 2020 report by the World Health Organization (WHO), PPH is responsible for approximately 28% of all maternal deaths globally. The report also shows that maternal deaths due to PPH are higher in low-income countries (32.4% of maternal deaths) as compared to high-income countries (10.7% of maternal deaths).
Postpartum hemorrhage is a significant contributor to maternal mortality globally. Although the percentage of maternal deaths due to PPH varies across countries and regions, it is essential to prioritize prevention and timely management of PPH to reduce maternal mortality and improve maternal health outcomes.
The provision of accessible, evidence-based, and quality obstetric care during the antenatal, intrapartum, and postpartum periods is crucial in reducing the incidence of PPH and improving maternal outcomes globally.
What is a risk factor for post partum hemorrhage?
Postpartum hemorrhage (PPH) is a condition where a woman experiences heavy bleeding after giving birth. It is one of the leading causes of maternal mortality and morbidity worldwide. There are several known risk factors for PPH. One of the most significant risk factors for PPH is uterine atony.
Uterine atony is a condition where the uterus fails to contract effectively after childbirth. This can be caused by a number of factors, including prolonged labor, delivery of a large baby, multiple pregnancies, or an overdistended uterus (such as in cases of twins or hydramnios). Other risk factors for uterine atony and subsequently PPH include maternal age over 35, high blood pressure, obesity, and a history of PPH.
Other risk factors for PPH include previous cesarean section, multiple gestations, pre-eclampsia, placenta previa or abruption, a prolonged second stage of labor, use of assisted reproductive technology, and anemia. Additionally, prolonged use of oxytocin, a medication that is often used to induce or augment labor, can also increase the risk of PPH.
It is important for healthcare providers to identify these risk factors and take appropriate measure to prevent or manage PPH. This can include prophylactic use of uterotonic medications, active management of the third stage of labor, and close monitoring of the mother’s condition after delivery. In some cases, additional interventions such as surgical ligation of the uterine blood vessels or a blood transfusion may be necessary.
By recognizing and managing risk factors for PPH, healthcare providers can reduce the impact of this potentially life-threatening condition on women and their families.
What is the major cause of primary PPH?
Primary Postpartum Hemorrhage (PPH) is a medical emergency that occurs in women after childbirth which leads to excessive blood loss from the vagina. In most cases, PPH occurs within the first 24 hours following delivery. It is regarded as a major cause of maternal morbidity and mortality worldwide especially in developing countries where access to healthcare is limited.
There are several factors that can contribute to the occurrence of PPH. It can either be primary or secondary, and each type has its own unique causes. Primary PPH, also known as early or acute PPH, is deemed to be due to factors that relate to the birthing process. The major cause of primary PPH is uterine atony.
This is when the uterus fails to contract, and there is no efficient clotting mechanism to prevent excessive bleeding. The inadequate contraction of the uterus is caused by the inability of the myometrium to contract properly, hence the bleeding continues unabated. Other causes could be.
Another cause of primary PPH is retained placental tissue. This occurs when parts of the placenta remain within the uterus after childbirth, and may lead to heavy and prolonged bleeding. In some cases, cervical and vaginal tears, uterine rupture during labor, and over-distension of the uterus can also lead to primary PPH.
Factors such as pre-existing medical conditions like anemia, preeclampsia, or other bleeding disorders can also contribute to PPH. Similarly, multiparity, prolonged labor, and a rapid successive delivery require additional exertion from the uterus leading to uterine atony.
Primary Postpartum Hemorrhage is a serious medical condition that must be attended to immediately. Several factors can lead to its occurrence, but the major cause is uterine atony. Urgent medical attention is necessary to prevent severe bleeding and fatalities, and it is essential for pregnant women to understand the risks involved in childbirth and seek prompt medical attention if they experience any complications.
Which risk factors are associated with postpartum hemorrhage select all that apply?
Postpartum hemorrhage (PPH) is a serious complication that affects women after childbirth. It is defined as blood loss of more than 500 mL within 24 hours after vaginal birth and more than 1000 mL after a cesarean section. In severe cases, it can lead to maternal death or long-term adverse health consequences.
There are several risk factors associated with postpartum hemorrhage. A few of these are listed below:
1. Previous history of PPH: Women who have had a history of PPH in previous pregnancies are at increased risk of experiencing it again in subsequent pregnancies. The risk may be higher if the previous PPH was severe or required blood transfusions.
2. Multiparity: Women who have had several pregnancies are at increased risk of experiencing PPH, especially if the pregnancies are closely spaced or if there have been previous complications such as pre-eclampsia.
3. Prolonged labor: Women who have prolonged labor, especially if it is accompanied by the use of instrument-assisted delivery, such as forceps or vacuum extraction, are at increased risk of PPH.
4. Cesarean section: Women who undergo cesarean section, especially if it is an emergency C-section, are at increased risk of PPH. This is because the uterus may not contract effectively after the procedure, leading to excessive blood loss.
5. Multiple pregnancies: Women who are carrying twins or triplets are at increased risk of PPH due to the increased strain on the uterus.
6. Placenta previa: Women who have placenta previa, where the placenta is covering the cervix, are at increased risk of PPH. This is because the placenta may tear during delivery, leading to excessive blood loss.
7. Placenta accreta: Women who have placenta accreta, where the placenta is attached too deeply to the uterine wall, are at increased risk of PPH. This is because the placenta may not detach properly after delivery, leading to excessive bleeding.
8. Pre-eclampsia: Women who have pre-eclampsia, a condition characterized by high blood pressure and protein in the urine, are at increased risk of PPH. This is because the blood vessels in the uterus may be damaged, leading to poor contraction of the uterus and excessive blood loss.
9. Obesity: Women who are obese are at increased risk of PPH due to increased blood volume and strain on the cardiovascular system.
There are several risk factors associated with postpartum hemorrhage. Early identification of these risk factors and prompt management can help to prevent PPH and improve maternal outcomes. Healthcare providers should be vigilant in identifying and managing these risk factors to ensure the safety of both the mother and baby.
What is the #1 reason for PPH?
The primary reason for PPH or Postpartum Hemorrhage is the failure of the uterus to contract properly after childbirth, leading to excessive bleeding. This condition typically occurs within 24 hours of delivery, and it is characterized by an excessive loss of blood, which can pose a significant threat to the mother’s health and survival.
The uterus contracts naturally after delivery, which helps in compressing the blood vessels around the area and reducing blood loss. However, in some cases, the uterus may not contract correctly, leading to heavy bleeding.
There are several factors that contribute to the occurrence of PPH, including the mother’s health status, delivery method, and complications during childbirth. For instance, women who have multiple pregnancies, previous C-sections, or prolonged labor are at a higher risk of PPH. Additionally, medical conditions like hypertension or pre-eclampsia, anemia, or blood clotting disorders can increase the risk of PPH.
Another significant factor that contributes to PPH is the method of delivery. Women who have vaginal deliveries are less likely to experience PPH than those who underwent C-sections. This is because C-sections typically involve surgical incisions that can increase bleeding during and after delivery.
However, in some cases, vaginal births can also lead to PPH, especially if the baby is large or the mother has an infection or uterine abnormalities.
Complications during childbirth, such as retained placenta, uterine rupture, and cervical tears, can also contribute to PPH. When the placenta is not entirely removed after delivery, it can cause bleeding, and the uterus may not contract effectively. In some cases, the uterus may tear or rupture during delivery, leading to significant bleeding.
The #1 reason for PPH is the inadequate contraction of the uterus after childbirth. This condition poses a significant risk to the mother’s health and requires immediate medical attention. Early detection and treatment are essential in preventing severe complications and ensuring the mother’s full recovery.
Women should receive proper prenatal and postpartum care to minimize the risk of PPH and ensure a safe and healthy delivery.
What are 4 complications of PPH?
PPH, or postpartum hemorrhage, is a serious medical condition that can occur after childbirth. It is defined as a blood loss of more than 500 ml following vaginal delivery, or more than 1000 ml following a cesarean section. PPH can cause a range of complications, including:
1. Anemia: One of the most common complications of PPH is anemia, which occurs due to a reduction in the number of red blood cells in the body. Anemia can cause fatigue, weakness, dizziness, and shortness of breath, and can affect a person’s ability to care for their newborn. Severe anemia can also increase the risk of postpartum depression and delayed postpartum recovery.
2. Infection: PPH can increase the risk of infection in the mother, particularly if the uterus is not properly emptied after delivery. If blood is retained in the uterus, it can lead to an infection called endometritis, which can cause fever, abdominal pain, and foul-smelling vaginal discharge. In severe cases, the infection can spread to other parts of the body, causing sepsis, which can be life-threatening.
3. Disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC): PPH can sometimes cause a condition called DIC, which is a disorder of blood clotting that can lead to excessive bleeding and organ failure. DIC occurs when the clotting mechanism in the body is overactive, leading to the formation of small blood clots that block blood vessels and reduce the supply of oxygen and nutrients to the tissues.
This can cause widespread damage to organs such as the liver, kidneys, and brain.
4. Postpartum shock: In severe cases of PPH, the mother can go into shock, which is a medical emergency that requires immediate treatment. Shock occurs when the body’s organs and tissues do not receive enough oxygen and nutrients due to a lack of blood flow. Symptoms of shock include rapid heartbeat, shallow breathing, cold and clammy skin, and confusion.
If left untreated, shock can lead to organ failure and death.
Pph is a serious medical condition that can lead to a range of complications, including anemia, infection, DIC, and shock. Early recognition and treatment of PPH are essential to prevent these complications and ensure the best possible outcome for both the mother and the newborn. Regular prenatal care, proper monitoring during labor and delivery, and prompt intervention in cases of excessive bleeding can help prevent PPH and its associated complications.
How long are you at risk for PPH?
Postpartum hemorrhage (PPH) is a condition that occurs when a woman experiences excessive blood loss of over 500 ml within 24 hours after giving birth. PPH can also happen when a woman loses more than 1,000 ml of blood after a cesarean section.
The risk of PPH varies from woman to woman and is affected by various factors such as the method of delivery (vaginal or cesarean), the number of previous deliveries, the size of the baby, delivery-related complications, and the presence of other medical conditions like placenta previa or preeclampsia.
Generally, women are considered to be at risk of PPH for the first 6-12 weeks after giving birth. This period is known as the postpartum period, during which the uterus contracts and shrinks back to its pre-pregnancy size. Women who have had a difficult delivery, such as multiple tears, might take longer to recover and may have a longer period of being at risk for PPH.
It is worth noting that while PPH is more common in the immediate period following delivery, it can still occur up to 12 weeks after childbirth. In rare cases, PPH can occur several months after delivery due to retained placental tissue.
It is important that women are aware of the signs and symptoms of PPH, such as heavy bleeding, feeling lightheaded or dizzy, or a rapid heartbeat, and seek prompt medical attention if they are experiencing any of these symptoms. Women who have a higher risk of PPH may need to be closely monitored during the postpartum period, and some may be given medications or other interventions to help reduce the risk of bleeding.
The period of risk for PPH varies depending on several factors but generally lasts for the first 6-12 weeks after giving birth. Women who experience any symptoms of PPH should seek immediate medical attention to prevent potentially life-threatening complications.