Comparision of the efficency of oxytocin and carbetosin for prevention of postpartum bleeding in low risk pregnancies

Objective: To compare the effectiveness of carbetocin and oxytocin in the prophylaxis of postpartum hemorrhage (PPH). Methods: Data from 136 cases who gave birth at Selçuk University Faculty of Medicine Hospital between January 1, 2023, and September 30, 2023, were retrospectively analyzed. Cases with risk factors for PPH were not included in the study. Data on mothers who received carbetocin and oxytocin during the active management of birth were obtained from the hospital electronic system and patient files. The amount of PPH was compared between the two groups. Results: Carbetocin was administered to 67 cases in the study group and oxytocin to the remaining 69 cases. No statistically significant difference was found between the two groups in terms of changes in hemoglobin (Hgb) (0.6±0.9-0.7±0.8), hematocrit (Htc) (2.0±3.02.1±2.3), and platelet (Plt) (10.6±56.8-14.2±32.8) (p: 0.790, p: 0.733, p: 0.645). The estimated blood loss was 306±113 milliliters (mL) in the carbetocin group, while it was 333.05±165 mL in the oxytocin group (p=0.715). The estimated blood loss in vaginal births was 319.1±157 mL in the oxytocin group and 294±109 mL in the carbetocin group (p=0.576). In the Cesarean section (CS) group, the estimated blood loss was 354.0±172 mL in the oxytocin group and 323±128mL in the carbetocin group (p=0.691). Conclusion: Oxytocin and carbetocin demonstrate similar efficacy in the prophylaxis of PPH. Carbetocin can be safely used as an alternative to oxytocin in cases with low risk.