Placental Abruption
Placental abruption is a serious pregnancy complication in which the placenta partially or completely separates from the uterus before delivery. This separation can disrupt the normal supply of oxygen and nutrients to the baby, potentially leading to a premature delivery and even death. It affects approximately 1 in 150 pregnancies and can cause severe bleeding, low birth weight, premature birth, and even fetal death. The exact cause of placental abruption is unknown, but it is often associated with trauma to the abdomen during pregnancy or a sudden increase in blood pressure. If detected early enough, doctors may be able to treat placental abruption and limit its potential complications. However, if left untreated, placental abruption can lead to severe complications for both mother and baby such as severe maternal hemorrhage, hypovolemic shock (low blood volume), organ damage due to oxygen deprivation, preterm labor or delivery, and even fetal death if the placenta detaches completely from the uterus. Please keep reading for details on the following topics:
Risk factors for placental abruption
Causes of placental abruption
Symptoms of placental abruption
A placenta with signs of abruption
Risk factors for placental abruption
Smoking
High blood pressure
Trauma during pregnancy
Cigarette smoking
High levels of stress or anxiety
Pre-existing conditions like diabetes or hypertension
The presence of certain infections
Previous placental abruption in a prior pregnancy
Advanced maternal age (woman is over 35 years old)
Causes of placental abruption
The exact cause of placental abruption is unknown
Symptoms of placenta previa
It is important to know when to seek urgent medical care, as delaying appropriate treatment can lead to further health complications. If you experience any of the following symptoms, you should seek medical help immediately. If you have any doubts about whether you should seek medical care, it is always better to err on the side of caution and consult with your doctor.
The mother may experience vaginal bleeding
Severe abdominal pain
Rapid contractions
Uterine tenderness
Signs of shock such as pale skin and dizziness
If diagnosed early on with proper management techniques like bed rest in a hospital setting and careful monitoring of vital signs, many patients are able to avoid more serious complications related to placental abruption. However, depending on the severity of the case an emergency cesarean section may be necessary in order to deliver the baby safely. Treatment options will also depend on how far along the pregnancy is since delivering too early carries its own set of risks for both mother and infant.
