Which of the following is a postpartum hemorrhage trigger?

• A. Normal placental delivery.
• B. Short labor.
• C. Retained products of conception.
• D. Early breastfeeding.

Answer: (C)

The key idea is that tissue remaining in the uterus after delivery can trigger postpartum hemorrhage. When placental tissue is left behind (retained products), the uterus can’t fully contract and seal off the bleeding vessels at the placental bed, so bleeding continues. This tissue-related cause is one of the classic four contributors to PPH. By contrast, normal placental delivery is the expected outcome and does not trigger hemorrhage. Short labor isn’t a direct trigger, and early breastfeeding helps by releasing oxytocin to promote contraction, thereby reducing hemorrhage risk. Management focuses on removing the retained tissue (when needed) and using uterotonic agents to promote contraction, with further steps if bleeding persists.