A New Solution to a Global Problem: How E-MOTIVE Can Reduce Postpartum Hemorrhage

Thursday - May 18 2023, 08:05 UTC - 1 year ago

A new solution, E-MOTIVE, developed by WHO and the University of Birmingham, could significantly reduce childbirth-related bleeding and maternal mortality by employing a low-cost blood collection drape and bundling WHO-recommended treatments. It is a low-cost solution that can be implemented quickly and effectively in resource-limited settings, helping to reduce maternal mortality around the world.

Postpartum hemorrhage (PPH) is the leading cause of maternal mortality worldwide. It affects an estimated 14 million women each year and results in around 70,000 deaths. However, a new solution, known as E-MOTIVE, developed by WHO and the University of Birmingham, could significantly reduce childbirth-related bleeding and maternal mortality.

A trial of a set of interventions to manage postpartum hemorrhage, published in the New England Journal of Medicine, found a 60% reduction in heavy bleeding. The E-MOTIVE solution consists of a low-cost blood collection drape and bundling WHO-recommended treatments including uterotonics, tears, surgery or first aid treatments, depending on a woman’s needs and contexts.

Currently, a major challenge in responding to PPH is that it is often detected too late to respond effectively. Most providers use visual inspection to assess bleeding, which tends to underestimate blood loss and can lead to life-threatening delays in treatment. When treatment is provided, this is typically done in a sequential manner with gaps between each intervention – costing more time if the first options are not effective.

The package has been shown to reduce cases of severe bleeding significantly, as well as reduce the rate of blood transfusions for bleeding, which is of particular importance in low-income countries. “This new approach to treating postpartum hemorrhage could radically improve women’s chances of surviving childbirth globally, helping them get the treatment they need when they need it,” said Professor Arri Coomarasamy, who led the trial and is the Co-Director of the WHO Collaborating Centre on Global Women’s Health at the University of Birmingham.

The E-MOTIVE package is a low-cost and easy to use solution that can be implemented quickly and effectively in resource-limited settings, ensuring that all women have access to the quality healthcare that they deserve. It is a key step in providing better care to women and helping to reduce maternal mortality around the world.