Understanding and Reducing the Risk of Postpartum Haemorrhage (PPH) for Your Second Birth

For parents who experienced complications in their first birth, the thought of postpartum haemorrhage (PPH) can feel frightening. While PPH is a serious condition, with knowledge, preparation, and the right support, you can feel confident and empowered going into your second birth.

At New Birth Club, we specialise in trauma-informed birth preparation and postnatal support for parents in Weston-super-Mare, Bristol, and Somerset, helping you plan a safe, calm, and positive birth experience.

🤱 What Is Postpartum Haemorrhage?

PPH is defined as excessive bleeding after birth, typically over 500ml after a vaginal birth or 1000ml after a cesarean. While it can be serious, most cases are preventable or manageable with careful monitoring and evidence-based interventions.

Risk factors for PPH can include:

• Previous PPH

• Prolonged labour or induction

• Multiple births

• Large baby or multiple pregnancies

“After experiencing heavy bleeding during my first birth, I felt anxious about my second. The guidance from New Birth Club helped me feel prepared, informed, and supported — I felt in control this time.”

🌟 How to Reduce the Risk of PPH

While not all PPH can be prevented, there are strategies that support safer outcomes:

1. Evidence-Based Birth Preparation
   Understanding the stages of labour, what interventions may occur, and how to advocate for yourself can reduce risk and stress.

2. Active Management of the Third Stage
   This includes options like oxytocin administration or controlled cord traction — your midwife will discuss what’s appropriate for you.

3. Positioning & Gentle Birth Techniques
   Optimal positions for labour and guided pushing can reduce trauma and bleeding.

4. Continuous Doula Support
   Emotional and physical support during labour has been shown to improve outcomes, reduce interventions, and help you feel calm and safe.

👩‍⚕️ Postnatal Care After PPH

Even if a PPH occurs, recovery can be supported through:

• Monitoring and follow-up with healthcare professionals

• Guidance on physical recovery and self-care

• Emotional support to process the experience

“Having the support of a doula after my PPH made a huge difference. I felt cared for, reassured, and empowered to recover physically and emotionally.”

⚡ Myths vs Facts About PPH

Myth: PPH only happens in high-risk pregnancies
Fact: PPH can occur in any birth, which is why preparation, awareness, and support are key.

Myth: There’s nothing you can do to prevent PPH
Fact: Evidence-based techniques, birth planning, and supportive care can reduce the risk and improve outcomes.

📅 Plan for a Safer, Empowered Birth

If you’ve experienced PPH or other birth complications in the past, trauma-informed birth preparation can help you feel confident, supported, and ready for your second birth.

👉 Book a birth preparation session with New Birth Club in Weston-super-Mare, Bristol, or Somerset today. Learn practical strategies, coping techniques, and advocacy skills to prepare for your safest, most empowering birth.

📩 Visit New Birth Club to secure your session — your birth can be safe, calm, and healing.