Placental Abruption

Placental abruption is the premature separation of the placenta from the uterine wall before delivery of the fetus. It is diagnosed in the presence of vaginal bleeding or when a retroplacental hematoma is identified. Placental abruption may be partial or complete. It typically presents during the second half of pregnancy with vaginal bleeding, abdominal pain, and uterine contractions. This condition increases the risk of maternal and fetal morbidity and mortality. Risk factors include smoking, trauma, hypertension, and cocaine use. Placental abruption is diagnosed based on clinical findings and ultrasonography. The treatment approach depends on gestational age, the extent of placental separation, and the condition of both the mother and the fetus.

Source | Author Doctor Nikas Samuolis, reviewed by Prof. Virginijus Šapoka | Vilnius University | Faculty of Medicine | Head of the Department of Internal Medicine, Family Medicine, and Oncology