Why in News?
Recently, The World Health Organization (WHO) has sought information from India following reports linking suspected spurious oxytocin to maternal deaths in Rajasthan related to Caesarean deliveries.
What is a Caesarean Section (C-Section)?
A Caesarean section (C-section) is a surgical procedure in which a baby is delivered through incisions made in the mother's abdomen and uterus, instead of through the birth canal (vaginal delivery).
When is a C-Section Performed?
A C-section is recommended when a vaginal delivery may pose risks to the mother or the baby. Common indications include:
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- Fetal distress (the baby is not receiving enough oxygen)
- Prolonged or obstructed labour
- Placenta previa (placenta covers the cervix)
- Breech or transverse presentation of the baby
- Multiple pregnancies (twins, triplets, etc.)
- Previous C-section or certain maternal medical conditions (in selected cases)
- Fetal distress (the baby is not receiving enough oxygen)
About Oxytocin:
Oxytocin is a peptide hormone produced in the hypothalamus and released by the posterior pituitary gland. It plays a vital role during childbirth by stimulating uterine contractions, aiding placental expulsion, promoting breastfeeding, and strengthening maternal-infant bonding. Synthetic oxytocin is included in the WHO Model List of Essential Medicines and is widely used in obstetric care.
Why is Oxytocin Critical During C-Sections?
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- A Caesarean section (C-section) is a surgical procedure in which a baby is delivered through incisions made in the mother's abdomen and uterus, instead of through the birth canal (vaginal delivery).
- Unlike normal vaginal delivery, where labour naturally triggers high oxytocin release, women undergoing Caesarean section (C-section) often require synthetic oxytocin because the hormonal response may be inadequate, especially under spinal or epidural anaesthesia. Administered immediately after delivery, oxytocin contracts the uterus, compresses blood vessels at the placental site, reduces blood loss, and prevents postpartum haemorrhage (PPH), one of the leading causes of maternal mortality worldwide.
- A Caesarean section (C-section) is a surgical procedure in which a baby is delivered through incisions made in the mother's abdomen and uterus, instead of through the birth canal (vaginal delivery).
Challenges Posed by spurious oxytocin:
Fake or substandard oxytocin lacking active pharmaceutical ingredients fails to induce adequate uterine contractions.
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- Increases the risk of severe postpartum haemorrhage, emergency blood transfusions, and maternal deaths.
- Weakens public confidence in healthcare institutions and essential medicines.
- Reflects gaps in manufacturing standards, quality testing, and supply-chain monitoring.
- Increases the risk of severe postpartum haemorrhage, emergency blood transfusions, and maternal deaths.
Government Measures:
To curb counterfeit medicines, the Government of India has mandated QR codes and barcodes on vaccines, antimicrobials, anti-cancer drugs, narcotics, and Schedule H2 medicines for better traceability. The Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO), India's National Regulatory Authority under the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940, is responsible for drug approvals, quality regulation, clinical trials, and coordination with State Drug Control Organisations to ensure safe and effective medicines.
Conclusion:
Oxytocin is a life-saving medicine that plays a crucial role in preventing postpartum haemorrhage during Caesarean deliveries. Ensuring the quality, safety, and traceability of essential medicines through robust regulation is vital for protecting maternal health and reducing preventable maternal deaths.
