Postpartum Bleeding Linked to Increased Heart Risks for Up to 15 Years: Study Finds

A major new study published in The Journal of Maternal-Fetal & Neonatal Medicine reveals that women who experience severe bleeding after childbirth, known as postpartum haemorrhage (PPH), face significantly elevated risks to their cardiovascular health for up to 15 years after delivery. The peer-reviewed analysis, which included data from more than 9.7 million women across Europe, North America, and Asia, found that postpartum haemorrhage increases the likelihood of cardiovascular disease by 76% and thromboembolic events such as blood clots by 110%.

Postpartum haemorrhage is a major global health concern, affecting approximately 14 million women each year and accounting for over 20% of maternal deaths. While it has long been treated as an acute medical emergency, this new analysis suggests it may also carry long-term consequences for heart health.

The systematic review and meta-analysis examined ten studies conducted between 1986 and 2018, with follow-up periods ranging from three to 31 years. These studies, conducted in countries including South Korea, the UK, Sweden, Canada, France, and the US, were analyzed using rigorous statistical methods to account for differences in study design and demographics. Researchers found that cardiovascular risks were especially elevated in women who had complications like preeclampsia or required blood transfusions during delivery.

“These aren’t expensive interventions, but they could make a real difference in early detection and prevention of disease later on,” said lead author Dr. Manggala Pasca Wardhana of Airlangga University, Indonesia, calling for routine cardiovascular checkups for women who experience postpartum haemorrhage.

While the study offers important insights, it also noted limitations, particularly the lack of data from low- and middle-income countries.

Reference: Ustadi, F. F., Paramita, A. D., Roswinabila, C. A., Oktavian, P., & Wardhana, M. P. (2025). Postpartum hemorrhage and long-term cardiovascular disease risk: a comprehensive systematic review and meta-analysis. The Journal of Maternal-Fetal & Neonatal Medicine, 38(1). https://doi.org/10.1080/14767058.2025.2507103