Making motherhood safer : UNFPA expands choices for maternal health

Globally, nearly one quarter of all maternal deaths are associated with postpartum haemorrhage (PPH), and in most low-income countries it is the main cause of maternal mortality.

The use of good quality prophylactic uterotonics can avoid the majority of postpartum hemorrhage (PPH) associated complications during the third stage of labor. Adding to the availability of Oxytocin, Mifepristone and Misoprostol, UNFPA now offers heat-stable carbetocin through the online catalogue.

The use of carbetocin is recommended for the prevention of postpartum hemorrhage (PPH) for all births in contexts where its cost is comparable to other effective uterotonics. Heat-stable carbetocin does not need refrigeration. It can be used in settings where it is not feasible to transport or store oxytocin in the cold chain.

UNFPA has also negotiated more competitive prices when procuring Oxytocin, Mifepristone, Misoprostol and Magnesium sulphate. See options here.

Ensuring that women receive good quality and effective prophylaxis uterotonics during the third stage of labor will contribute to reducing inequities in maternal health globally and save lives.

Learn more about the uses of carbetocin with this infographic.