Placental Disorders as a Risk Factor for the Development of Postpartum Haemorrhage

Abstract

The placenta is a functional link between mother and fetus during pregnancy and the most important factor determining newborn and infant health. Postpartum hemorrhage is a leading cause of maternal morbidity and mortality worldwide and is affected by numerous factors including placental size. Here we analysed the role of placental disorders as a risk factor for the development of postpartum hemorrhage. We screened the available literature via PubMed, PubMed Central, Scopus, MEDLINE, ScienceDirect, Cochrane Library, and eLibrary from 2001 to October 2023. Placental insufficiency may cause either hyperplasia (i.e., placental expansion to meet the nutritional needs of the growing fetus) or hypoplasia, which cause deficiency in nutrients and oxygen and slows down fetal growth and development. Both of these conditions significantly affect the probability and volume of postpartum haemorrhage.