Placental abruption

This is an uncommon yet serious impediment of pregnancy. In this condition, the placenta partially or completely separates from your uterus before your baby is born, thus depriving your baby of oxygen and nutrients and can cause severe bleeding that can be quite harmful to you both. Placental abruption occurs in about one in 150 pregnancies and is common in the third trimester but can happen anytime after 20 weeks.

The exact cause of placental abruption is often unknown, but possible causes include injury or trauma to the abdomen from a fall or rapid loss of fluid that surrounds and cushions the baby in the uterus.

There are various risk factors that can increase one's risk of placental abruption and they are:

• Abdominal trauma
• Substance abuse
• High blood pressure
• Previous placental abruption
• Multiple pregnancies
• Maternal age
• Blood clotting disorders
• Premature rupture of the membranes

This condition can cause life-threatening problems for both the mother and baby.

For the mother, placental abruption may cause:

• Shock due to blood loss
• The need for a blood transfusion
• Failure of the kidneys or other organs
• Blood clotting problems

For the baby, placental abruption may cause:

• Stillbirth
• Premature birth
• Deprivation of oxygen and nutrients

Most women may have some vaginal bleeding, ranging from a small amount to an obvious and sudden gush. Although, at times the blood stays in the uterus behind the placenta and you might not see any bleeding at all. Women also experience some uterine tenderness or back pain.

Contact your doctor immediately if you have these signs:

• Vaginal bleeding or spotting
• If your water breaks and the fluid is bloody
• Frequent contractions or a contraction that doesn't end
• Abdominal pain, back pain, cramping or uterine tenderness

Note:
• Do not drink alcohol during pregnancy
• Do not smoke or use recreational drugs during pregnancy
• If you have high blood pressure, work with your doctor to control the condition