Objective: To observe the effects of methyl carprost suppository on postpartum bleeding in normal parturients.
Methods: Three hundred and sixty normal parturients were randomized into study group (n = 260) and the control group (n = 100). Parturients in study group were administered methyl carprost suppository tents either vaginally (n = 130) or via the rectum (n = 130). The controls were given 10IU oxytocin immediately after the delivery of anterior shoulder of the fetus either intramuscularly (n = 50) or intravenously (n = 50). The amount of bleeding with in 2 hours postpartum was measured.
Results: The mean amount of bleeding for parturients who received vaginal or rectal methyl carprost was 146.4 ml and 134.2 ml, respectively. In contrast, the mean amount of bleeding for parturients who received oxytocin intramuscularly or intravenously was 267.9 ml and 210.6 ml, respectively. The differences in the amount of bleeding between the two groups were statistically significant (P < 0.01), whereas differences between the routes of drug administration within each group were not significant (P > 0.05).
Conclusion: Methyl carprost suppository is more effective than oxytocin in controlling postpartum bleeding. Drug administration through the rectum is easy to perform and, therefore, suitable for use in rural areas.