Mechanical Stimulation of the Uterus to Prevent Postpartum Hemorrhage

Abstract

The project focused on creating a method of prevention for postpartum hemorrhage (PPH) in low-income hospitals. PPH a severe loss of blood after a woman gives birth and the leading cause of maternal mortality worldwide. In low and middle income countries, the shortage of skilled birth attendants means that maternal death due to PPH is especially common. Uterine atony is when the uterus does not contract after birth and is the most common cause of PPH. The current method for preventing PPH is called the Active Management of the Third Stage of Labor (AMTSL), which includes the administration of uterotonic drugs, placenta removal, and manual massage by a doctor, nurse, or midwife. The solution produced by this project is a mechanical massaging device that is meant for use when a medical professional is not available to perform the uterine massage. The design of the massaging device includes a housing, motor, turning plate, and silicone cover with a nylon insert. The silicone rests in direct contact with the patient’s skin and the turning plate applies pressure through the nylon, silicone, and skin and onto the smooth muscle of the uterus. The shear force felt by the uterus causes contraction and prevents PPH. The massaging device is held onto the patient using a vinyl securing mechanism which is weighted on each side. The weights keep the securing mechanism in place without requiring straps around the patient backs. The prototype of this device was successfully fabricated and tested during the course of this semester and proved to be effective, safe, and durable. This article serves to report the details of this design project.