In plain words
Placental abruption is when the placenta pulls away from the wall of the uterus before the baby is born. The separation cuts off the baby's oxygen and food supply. It can cause bleeding that is visible, or blood that stays hidden inside. Many people feel constant belly or back pain, and the belly can feel hard and tender. Less baby movement can be a sign. Call 911 or go to labor and delivery now for bleeding, severe belly pain, or a change in baby movement. Early care gives the best outcome for you and the baby.
The deeper version
Placental abruption is premature separation of a normally sited placenta, classically presenting with painful vaginal bleeding, uterine tenderness, and fetal heart rate changes, though concealed hemorrhage is common. The RCOG Green-top Guideline 63 (2011) describes diagnosis by clinical findings, with ultrasound of limited sensitivity, and management by monitoring, delivery, and attention to coagulopathy. Risk factors include hypertension, smoking, cocaine use, prior abruption, trauma, and advanced maternal age. Severe abruption can lead to disseminated intravascular coagulation and , and its clinical significance lies in the differential of lower abdominal pain in pregnancy.
Where it comes up
- Baby moving less: what to doPregnancy: Your Body
- Placenta previa and other placenta findingsPregnancy: Your Body
- Round ligament painPregnancy: Your Body
- Travel during pregnancyPregnancy: Mind and Life
What mothers here say about placental abruption
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Sources
- Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists — Green-top Guideline No. 63: Antepartum Haemorrhage (2011)