Post-Partum Hemorrhage

Abstract

Postpartum hemorrhage (PPH) is the leading cause of maternal mortality worldwide, affecting about 1 in 5 women after childbirth. It’s defined as a blood loss of 500 mL or more within 24 hours of vaginal delivery and 1000 mL or more after a cesarean. Despite its severity, PPH is often detected through visual estimation or manual weighing of blood-soaked materials—methods that result in a 35–50% misestimation rate, delaying critical intervention. With 3.66 million births occurring annually in the U.S., the risk and impact of undetected PPH are substantial. FemEng Health Solutions is addressing this urgent issue with a novel blood flow monitoring device that provides real-time, accurate measurement of postpartum blood loss. The device features an intravaginal silicone funnel embedded with a colorimetric flow sensor, designed for both precision and patient comfort. It includes a built-in alert system to notify healthcare providers when blood loss reaches concerning levels. A yellow light signals when blood loss hits 400 mL—prompting early awareness—while a red light is triggered at 500 mL, indicating immediate action is needed. By improving accuracy and enabling timely response, FemEng’s innovation aims to reduce maternal morbidity and mortality caused by delayed PPH detection. This solution promotes safer childbirth experiences and supports better maternal health outcomes, advancing equitable care for women and families across the globe.

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