Definition

The placenta is an organ that nourishes the baby in the womb. Placental abruption is when it parts from the womb before a baby is born.

Placental Abruption Copyright © Nucleus Medical Media, Inc.

Causes    TOP

Sometimes the cause it not clear. Other times it may be due to:

• Rupture of an artery or vein in the uterus which causes bleeding between the placenta and the uterine wall
• Problems with how the placenta forms
• Low oxygen levels in the uterus
• Injury to the belly from an accident or a fall
• Sudden decrease in the volume of the uterus, from losing amniotic fluid or from the delivery of a first twin

Risk Factors    TOP

This health problem is more common in older mothers.

Factors that may raise your risk are:

• Trauma
• Prior abruption
• Multiple prior deliveries
• Smoking during pregnancy
• Drug misuse, especially cocaine
• Vaginal bleeding during pregnancy
• High blood pressure during pregnancy
• Being pregnant with multiples
• Prior cesarean section (C-section)

Symptoms    TOP

In the early stages, you may not have symptoms. If you do, you may have:

• Vaginal bleeding
• Belly pain
• Back pain
• Rapid contractions

Diagnosis    TOP

Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and health history. A physical exam will be done. A pelvic exam will also be done.

You may have:

• Ultrasound
• Blood tests

Treatment    TOP

Talk with your doctor about the best plan for you. You may have:

Prevention    TOP

Do not take drugs or smoke during pregnancy.

If you have this health problem before, your doctor will watch you closely if you become pregnant again.