Calcium given during cesarean to reduce severe bleeding
Official title: Intravenous Calcium to Prevent Severe Obstetrical Hemorrhage at Cesarean Delivery
Funded at George Washington University · NIH-11373268 · Data updated 2026-11-12
A simple, patient-friendly trial will test whether giving calcium through an IV at cesarean delivery can lower the risk of heavy bleeding after birth for mothers.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | George Washington University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Washington, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2026 |
| Project end | August 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $1,056,528 |
| NIH project number | 1UG3HD122281-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11373268 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Pregnant individuals having a cesarean delivery who are eligible based on study criteria and consent to participate.
✕Less likely to help
People not experiencing the trial conditions or who do not meet eligibility criteria may not benefit from this intervention.
What this research studies
This study will enroll women undergoing cesarean delivery and randomly assign them to receive an intravenous dose of calcium chloride or a placebo at the time of surgery. The goal is to see if the calcium helps the uterus contract better and reduce heavy bleeding, potentially lowering the need for blood transfusions. The trial builds on prior small studies showing calcium can be safely given and may lessen blood loss, and will involve multiple centers to ensure reliable results. Participants will be monitored for safety and pregnancy outcomes, with results guiding future care options if beneficial.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could become a simple, inexpensive way to prevent severe postpartum bleeding.
How similar studies have gone: Preliminary randomized trials suggest calcium chloride is well tolerated and may reduce blood loss, supporting further testing.
Where this research is happening
-
George Washington University
Washington, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Clifton, Rebecca Gersnoviez — George Washington University
- Study coordinator: Clifton, Rebecca Gersnoviez
Related research
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Anticoagulation in ICH Survivors with Atrial Fibrillation and Small Vessel Disease
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.