What is placental abruption?
The placenta is your baby’s life support system, and it’s meant to stay attached to the uterus right up through delivery. In a placental abruption, the placenta separates away from the wall of the uterus, disrupting the flow of oxygen and important nutrients from you to your baby.
What are the signs of a placental abruption?
Abdominal pain, back pain, frequent uterine contractions (or contractions without any break in between) and vaginal bleeding are all signs of an abruption.
Are there any tests for a placental abruption?
If your doctor suspects you have placental abruption, she’ll likely order an abdominal or vaginal ultrasound, as well as fetal monitoring and blood tests.
How common is a placental abruption?
The condition (either partial or full tear) occurs in about 1 out of 100 to 150 deliveries. The more severe form (a full tear) occurs in about 1 out of 800 to 1,600 deliveries.
How did I get a placental abruption?
The exact cause can be difficult to determine, but a direct trauma to the abdomen (such as in an automobile accident or a fall) can cause the placenta to tear from the uterine wall. Other risk factors include diabetes, smoking, high blood pressure, cocaine use or drinking more than 14 alcoholic beverages a week during pregnancy, as well as an older maternal age, a large number of previous deliveries, uterine fibroids or increased uterine distention (which can happen if you’re carrying multiples or have a large volume of amniotic fluid).
How will my placental abruption affect my baby?
A placental abruption is a true obstetrical emergency, and it can result in death for the baby -- and in some instances (excessive blood loss, hidden uterine bleeding), the mother. So seek medical help immediately (see next page for treatments).