British journal of obstetrics and gynaecology
-
Br J Obstet Gynaecol · Jul 1997
Randomized Controlled Trial Clinical TrialRoutine oxytocin in the third stage of labour: a placebo controlled randomised trial.
To compare intravenous oxytocin administration (Partocon 10 IU) with saline solution in the management of postpartum haemorrhage in the third stage of labour. ⋯ Administration of intravenous oxytocin in the third stage of labour is associated with an approximately 22% reduction in mean blood loss, and approximately 40% reductions in frequencies of postpartum haemorrhage (> 500 mL or > 800 mL) and of postpartum haemoglobin < 10 g/dL. Identification of risk groups for oxytocin treatment does not seem worthwhile. Oxytocin is a cheap atoxic drug and should be given routinely after vaginal delivery.