Mumbai News: Cama And Albless Hospital Study Flags Higher Hysterectomy Risk After Caesarean Deliveries

Mumbai: A study by doctors from Mumbai’s Cama and Albless Hospital has revealed a concerning link between Caesarean section (C-section) deliveries and emergency obstetric hysterectomies — a life-saving procedure where the uterus is surgically removed following childbirth complications.

Titled “Hope Amidst Crisis: Emergency Obstetric Hysterectomy”, the research analysed 11,511 deliveries over a four-year period, of which 5,398 (46.8%) were C-sections. During this time, 22 emergency hysterectomies were conducted: 16 following C-sections and 4 after vaginal deliveries.

The study was conducted by a team of doctors from Grant Government Medical College and J.J. Group of Hospitals, including Dr. Tushar T. Palve, Dr. Samiksha Dhama, Dr. Ashwini Sonkamble, Dr. Harsha Rajani, and Dr. Kumari Ankita.

The study found that the rate of emergency hysterectomy was slightly higher in Caesarean section deliveries, with 1 in every 245 C-section cases requiring the procedure, compared to 1 in every 278 vaginal deliveries.

The primary medical reasons behind these emergency surgeries were postpartum haemorrhage (PPH) — severe bleeding after childbirth — and placental abnormalities, particularly placenta accreta, a serious condition where the placenta attaches too deeply into the uterine wall.

The study’s key observations revealed that the majority of emergency hysterectomy cases occurred in women aged 30 to 39 years, many of whom had already given birth to two or three children. Notably, nine cases involved younger women in the 20 to 29 age group, indicating that the risk is not limited to older mothers.

Additionally, two of the hysterectomy cases were directly linked to placenta accreta, a severe and potentially life-threatening placental complication where the placenta grows too deeply into the uterine wall.

Dr. Tushar T. Palve, Superintendent of Cama Hospital and the lead researcher, explained that in critical cases involving uncontrollable postpartum bleeding or severe infections, performing an emergency hysterectomy was often the only way to save the mother’s life. These were life-threatening situations where immediate surgical intervention was necessary to prevent further complications or death.

Tips to Lower the Risk of Emergency Hysterectomy

To reduce the risk of hysterectomy during childbirth, pregnant women are advised to stay active and strengthen pelvic muscles to support natural delivery. Whenever medically possible, vaginal birth should be preferred over C-section.

Women with prior C-sections, low haemoglobin, bleeding disorders, or placental issues should take extra precautions—such as arranging blood in advance, preparing for possible ICU care, and ensuring availability of emergency medications. Proper antenatal care and delivering in a well-equipped hospital are key to managing risks effectively.

Here’s a shortened and polished version of that section:

Impact on Women’s Health After Hysterectomy

While a hysterectomy can save lives, it has lasting effects. It permanently ends the ability to conceive—even through IVF—and may lead to early menopause if ovarian blood supply is affected. Many women experience hormonal imbalances, emotional distress, and psychological challenges, especially those under 30, who often struggle with the sudden loss of fertility.

In Numbers:

Total Hysterectomy: 22

Normal/Vaginal Deliveries: 04

Caesarean Section Deliveries: 16

Placenta Accreta :02

Main causes: Postpartum haemorrhage, placental abnormalities

High risk in women aged 30–39 with 2–3 children

Women under 30 suffered greater emotional trauma

Effects: Infertility, early menopause, mental distress

Advice: Stay active, prefer vaginal delivery, prepare if high-risk

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Study covered 11,511 deliveries over 4 years

5,398 C-sections (46.8%) performed

22 emergency hysterectomies: 16 after C-sections, 4 after vaginal deliveries, 2 cases linked to placenta accreta

Hysterectomy Rate

1 in 278 Vaginal Deliveries

1 in 245 Caesarean Deliveries

9 cases between 20-29 age