RCOG issues guidance on severe maternal morbidity

The Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RCOG) has offered advice for women experiencing severe maternal morbidity during pregnancy.

It comes after a report from Healthcare Improvement Scotland which found that one in every 140 pregnancies is affected by conditions such as major obstetric haemorrhage (MOH).

RCOG highlighted a number of deficiencies in the prevention and management of MOH and called for increased awareness from clinicians.

MOH is defined as blood loss over 2,000ml or a rate of 150ml per min which can put the woman's health and life at risk.

Professor Alan Cameron, vice president for clinical quality at RCOG, advocates the training of all health professionals so they are able to manage the haemorrhage and ensure that the best care is given.

Mr Cameron added: "Clinicians must be aware of the known risk factors for haemorrhage and should take these into account when counselling women about place of delivery to ensure the wellbeing and safety of both the mother and the baby."