Obstetric Hemorrhage Committee

In moments of crisis, readiness saves lives. We’re dedicated to making sure every mother receives swift, skilled care when it matters most.

Patients with Lived Experience

When my Obstetrician and I decided to induce my labor at 39 weeks I had no idea that could possibly increase the risk of harmful events to me and my baby. I hemorrhaged and had several more complications during labor and a week postpartum as a result of my complicated delivery that may have not happened if I had gone into labor naturally- I will never know. Regardless, my family and I are beyond thankful for the medical staff who saved my life and kept my baby safe during delivery. Their education and training for recognizing and treating hemorrhage according to the standards of care is what made a difference in our lives. I shouldn’t be writing this statement, but because of my swift actions, here I am. My daughter has a mother because of that group of prepared clinicians. This is why groups like the Kentucky Maternal Mortality and Morbidity Task Force are vital. They ensure evidence-based care is translated into protocols and shared across the state- and maybe to the country- to save and improve lives.

Rachel G

ABOUT US

What we do as the Obstetric Hemorrhage Committee

Timely action can make all the difference when it comes to obstetric hemorrhage—one of the most serious and preventable complications during childbirth. The Obstetric Hemorrhage Committee is dedicated to improving how healthcare teams recognize, manage, and prevent severe bleeding during and after delivery.

Through statewide collaboration, evidence-based education, and clinical guidance, we’re working to ensure that women receive the safest, most responsive care possible at every stage of their pregnancy journey.

Importance of Obstetric Hemorrhage Reduction

Obstetric hemorrhage, especially postpartum hemorrhage (PPH), is one of the most urgent and preventable threats to maternal health. It is a leading cause of maternal death both in Kentucky and across the United States. Studies show that 54–93% of hemorrhage-related maternal deaths are preventable. Delays in recognizing and responding to excessive blood loss—often due to inaccurate visual estimation—are a key factor in poor outcomes.¹

National data reflected in Kentucky’s planning shows that non-Hispanic Black birthing people experience maternal mortality rates 2.9 times higher than non-Hispanic white individuals, with hemorrhage being a significant contributor. ²

Obstetric hemorrhage can escalate rapidly, leading to severe complications such as:

Hypovolemic shock
Organ failure
Emergency hysterectomy
Death

Kentucky’s Mortality Rate

Kentucky’s overall maternal mortality rate was 34.6 deaths per 100,000 live births as of 2024—more than double the national target of 15.7

The National average suggests that approximately 3.8 deaths per 100,000 live births in Kentucky may be due to obstetric hemorrhage

Hemorrhage Prevention Strategy

To reduce maternal deaths and severe complications from obstetric hemorrhage, the OB Hemorrhage Committee is implementing a statewide strategy focused on policy review, equity, and clinical readiness. Key actions include:

Review Policies

Systematically review and revise OB hemorrhage management policies at delivery hospitals to identify and address organizational factors contributing to racial and ethnic disparities. This process will use REAL (race, ethnicity, and language) data to guide improvements and ensure equitable care practices across facilities.

Data Management

Use REAL data (Race, Ethnicity, and Language) to guide improvement priorities. Monitor and report policy changes based on review findings and measure the impact through reductions in hemorrhage-related hospitalizations and maternal morbidity.

Integration

Embed respectful care measures into team debriefs and patient experience tools to promote dignity, communication, and cultural sensitivity during and after obstetric emergencies. These measures will be tracked through patient-reported experience metrics (PREMs) to inform ongoing quality improvement.

Drills

Conduct regular simulation drills focused on postpartum hemorrhage response, engaging multidisciplinary teams in realistic scenarios. These drills will enhance clinical readiness, improve coordination, and ensure timely interventions. Participation and outcomes will be monitored to assess impact and guide future training.