According to WHO, what is given to prevent PPH by active management of third stage of labour?
**Core Concept**
Active management of the third stage of labor (AMTSL) is a crucial step in preventing postpartum hemorrhage (PPH), a leading cause of maternal mortality worldwide. The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends the use of oxytocin to induce uterine contractions after delivery, thereby reducing the risk of excessive bleeding.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The use of oxytocin in AMTSL is based on its potent vasoconstrictive and uterotonic properties. Oxytocin stimulates the contraction of uterine smooth muscle by binding to oxytocin receptors, which are present on the surface of uterine muscle cells. This results in a rapid increase in uterine tone, effectively preventing excessive bleeding and reducing the risk of PPH. Oxytocin is administered intramuscularly (IM) immediately after delivery, allowing for rapid absorption and onset of action.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** IV PGF2 alpha agonist is not recommended for the prevention of PPH in AMTSL. While PGF2 alpha agonists, such as carboprost, can be used to treat severe PPH, they are not the first-line treatment for preventing PPH in the first place.
**Option C:** IV ergometrine is an alternative uterotonic agent that can be used to prevent PPH, but it is not the preferred choice according to WHO recommendations. Ergometrine can cause severe hypertension and is not as effective as oxytocin in preventing PPH.
**Option D:** Perrectal prostaglandins are not typically used for the prevention of PPH in AMTSL. While prostaglandins can be used to induce labor or treat PPH, they are not the preferred choice for preventing PPH in the third stage of labor.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
It's essential to remember that the administration of oxytocin in AMTSL should be accompanied by the controlled cord traction and uterine massage to effectively prevent PPH.
**Correct Answer:**
✓ Correct Answer: B. IM oxytocin