This randomized controlled clinical trial evaluates the effect of umbilical vein injection of oxytocin given in addition to routine active management of the third stage of labour. The third stage of labour is associated with a risk of postpartum haemorrhage, a major cause of maternal morbidity and mortality, particularly in low-resource settings. Active management with intramuscular oxytocin and controlled cord traction is standard practice, but additional measures that can further reduce blood loss may improve maternal outcomes.
Eligible women undergoing vaginal delivery were randomly assigned to receive either an intra-umbilical injection of oxytocin diluted in normal saline or a placebo injection of normal saline, alongside standard active management of the third stage. The main outcomes assessed were postpartum blood loss, duration of the third stage of labour, and change in maternal haemoglobin concentration within 24 hours after delivery.
The study aims to determine whether local administration of oxytocin through the umbilical vein can enhance uterine contraction, promote placental separation, shorten the third stage of labour, and reduce postpartum blood loss compared with standard care alone.