Is blood transfusion safe during pregnancy or delivery?
Yes, transfusion can be life‑saving for pregnant women and new mothers when used appropriately.
Reasons a pregnant woman might need blood include:
· Severe anemia that threatens her health or the baby’s health.
· Heavy bleeding during or after delivery (postpartum hemorrhage).
· Complications like placenta previa or placental abruption causing blood loss.
Doctors:
· Carefully weigh the risks and benefits.
· Use screened, matched blood from licensed banks.
· Monitor the mother closely during and after transfusion.
Avoiding a necessary transfusion in a severe emergency can be much more dangerous than the small risk associated with transfusion.