Placental Abruption (Placenta Separation)
Description
The premature separation (abruption) of the placenta before childbirth. The fetus receives oxygen and nutrients through the placenta and an abruption can be life-threatening for the fetus and the mother. Placenta abruption can lead to preterm birth, low birth weight, and major maternal blood loss. Abruptions can be spontaneous or after trauma.
Symptoms
Vaginal bleeding, lower abdominal pain, back pain.
Tests
A history and physical exam will be performed. An ultrasound can identify the disorder but is not always diagnostic. Monitoring of the fetus may show fetal distress. Blood test to identify associated blood clotting problems will be done.
- CBC
- Chem 12
- Ultrasound
Treatment
Treatment includes intravenous fluids and blood transfusions. Admission to the hospital with close monitoring of the mother and fetus is done. The choice of vaginal delivery, c-section or continued observation is based on the size of the abruption, the health of the mother, and the age of the fetus.
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