Clinical Experience in Peripartum and Postpartum Blood Transfusion Patients

INTRODUCTION: We aimed to discuss the indications of blood and blood products transfusion in prepartum, peripartum and postpartum period who delivered in our obstetric clinic.
METHODS: A retrospective, observational study was performed of the patients who were delivered and received blood transfusion, at the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology of Sancaktepe Training and Research Hospital between 01 February 2018 - 31 October 2018. Data abstracted included demographic features, birth records, time of blood transfusions, indications and results.
RESULTS: During the study period, the records of 3575 patients who delivered in our clinic, were examined. Blood transfusion was performed in 2,65% (n: 95) of the patients. Blood transfusion was performed in 5,41% of deliveries by cesarean section and 1,56% in vaginal deliveries. No specific indications for transfusion were identified in 26,3% (n: 25) of the patients and 30,5% patients (n: 29) had no risk factors except chronic anemia. The most common obstetric indication was uterine atony 18,9% (n: 18) of the patients. The red blood cells ratio used in the transfused patients was 2,09 ± 1,18 (0-7) units, the fresh frozen plasma ratio was 1,49 ± 1,05 (0-4) units.
DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION: Blood and blood products transfusions are life- saving therapies, but they can also cause undesirable complications. We believe that transfusion rates can be reduced by preventing the anemia in pregnancy with appropriate iron and multivitamin supplements by ensuring the regular follow-up of pregnant patients.