What is a critical treatment for postpartum hemorrhage after losing 500 mL of blood?

Fundal massage is a crucial treatment for postpartum hemorrhage, especially in the context of losing up to 500 mL of blood. This technique involves applying firm pressure to the top of the uterus to help stimulate contraction. After delivery, the uterus needs to contract effectively to minimize bleeding. Ineffective uterine contractions (uterine atony) are a common cause of early postpartum hemorrhage. By performing fundal massage, the healthcare provider can encourage the uterus to contract, which helps to control and reduce the bleeding.

In situations where postpartum hemorrhage occurs, timely intervention is essential to prevent further complications. While IV fluids are important for resuscitating the patient and replacing fluid volume, they do not directly address the underlying issue of uterine atony. Complete bed rest may be necessary after the initial stabilization, but it does not contribute to resolving the bleeding. Similarly, surgical intervention may be needed in severe cases or if other treatments fail, but it is not the immediate response for a moderate amount of blood loss like 500 mL. Thus, fundal massage directly addresses the most common cause of postpartum hemorrhage and is essential in managing the condition effectively.