Postpartum haemorrhage (PPH) is one of the leading causes of maternal mortality throughout the world. Oxytocin is a drug administered immediately after birth of the baby that initiates uterine contractions assisting separation of the placenta and reducing blood loss. It can be administered into a vein, usually through a cannula, or intramuscularly into the mother’s thigh. It is standard practice to recommend use of an oxytocin to prevent blood loss following birth. Both routes have been shown to be effective when compared to a placebo (inactive agent) but there are no clinical studies making a direct comparison. The intravenous route works faster but has potential side effects. The intramuscular route is slower and therefore less likely to have side effects but may result in greater blood loss. This balance of risks and benefits is the perfect scenario for a clinical trial. The student scholarship will provide an opportunity for the applicant to become involved in the day to day running of a clinical trial. In addition she will be primarily responsible for a sub-study monitoring the cardiovascular effects of oxytocin in the immediate postpartum period within a subset of trial participants. She will be supported by an experienced multi-disciplinary research team.
