Global Research Finds Long-Term Heart Risks Linked to Severe Bleeding After Birth

A comprehensive international study has revealed that women who experience severe postpartum hemorrhage are at a significantly increased risk of developing cardiovascular diseases over the long term. Analyzing data from over 9.7 million women across Europe, North America, and Asia, researchers found that the health consequences can persist for up to 15 years after childbirth.

Postpartum hemorrhage (PPH), which affects roughly 14 million women annually and accounts for more than 20% of maternal deaths worldwide, has traditionally been viewed as an immediate emergency. However, recent evidence suggests that its effects on blood loss can have lasting impacts on cardiovascular health. The systematic review and meta-analysis encompassed ten studies published up to 2024, with follow-up periods ranging from three to 31 years. The studies included diverse populations from countries such as South Korea, the UK, Sweden, Canada, France, and the US.

Findings indicate that women who suffer severe PPH, especially those requiring blood transfusions, have a 1.76-fold higher risk of cardiovascular conditions like heart failure, stroke, and ischemic heart disease. They are also 2.10 times more likely to experience thromboembolic events like blood clots. The risk is particularly elevated during the first year postpartum but can extend for more than a decade, especially among women with high blood pressure complications like preeclampsia.

Lead researcher Dr. Manggala Pasca Wardhana emphasizes the importance of viewing postpartum care as a continuous process, extending beyond delivery. She suggests that routine cardiovascular screening for women who had severe postpartum bleeding could facilitate early detection and better management of potential health issues.

The research underscores the need for evolving clinical guidelines to include the long-term monitoring of women who experience PPH. It also calls for further research to understand the mechanisms linking severe blood loss at childbirth with cardiovascular diseases and to develop targeted prevention and treatment strategies.

While most data comes from high-income countries, the study highlights the global relevance of addressing PPH’s long-term effects, especially in low- and middle-income countries where PPH prevalence and healthcare access disparities are more pronounced. Recognizing these long-term risks can pave the way for more comprehensive maternal health policies and interventions.

Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-06-global-links-severe-childbirth-cardiovascular.html