What Does AMTSL Stand For?
AMTSL stands for Active Management of the Third Stage of Labour. The third stage of labour is the period after the baby is born and before the placenta is delivered. Without intervention, this stage carries the highest risk of postpartum haemorrhage (PPH) — excessive bleeding after delivery.
AMTSL is a set of clinical steps that, when carried out correctly immediately after birth, significantly reduce the risk of PPH and maternal death.
Why Is AMTSL Important in India?
Postpartum haemorrhage is the leading cause of maternal mortality in India, accounting for approximately 25–30% of all maternal deaths. Most of these deaths are preventable with timely and correct application of AMTSL protocols.
For nurses, ANMs, GNMs, and staff nurses attending deliveries — in hospitals, health centres, or community settings — knowing and correctly applying AMTSL is a life-saving skill.
The Key Steps of AMTSL
- 1. Uterotonic administration — Giving oxytocin (10 IU IM) within one minute of the baby's birth to stimulate uterine contractions
- 2. Controlled cord traction — Gently pulling the umbilical cord while applying counter-pressure on the uterus to deliver the placenta
AMTSL Training and Certification
Aastrika Sphere offers a dedicated course on Normal Labour and Birth including AMTSL, developed in collaboration with clinical experts and accredited by the Indian Nursing Council. The course covers the full protocol with step-by-step guidance, clinical videos, and a competency assessment.
Completing the course earns you CNE points and an INC-certified certificate — recognised proof that you have been trained in evidence-based delivery care.
Who Should Take an AMTSL Course?
- Nurses and midwives attending institutional deliveries
- ANMs conducting deliveries at sub-centres or in communities
- GNM graduates preparing for hospital placements
- Staff nurses in labour rooms and obstetric wards
- CHOs managing deliveries at health and wellness centres