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

The exact cause is not always known. 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, such as from losing amniotic fluid or from the delivery of a first twin

Risk Factors    TOP

This health problem is more common in older mothers.

Other things that may raise the risk are:

• Trauma
• Prior abruption
• Multiple prior deliveries
• Smoking during pregnancy
• Substance use disorder, 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, there may not be symptoms. Women who do have symptoms may have:

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

Diagnosis    TOP

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

You may have:

• Blood tests
• Ultrasound to view the baby

Treatment    TOP

Treatment depends on the how much the placenta has separated and the health of the mother and fetus. Choices are:

• Bed rest and close monitoring that may include treatments such as blood transfusions
• Emergency vaginal or cesarean delivery if the mother and fetus are in danger

Prevention    TOP

The risk of this problem can be lowered by avoiding drugs and not smoking during pregnancy.