What is placental abruption ?

It is a serious pregnancy complication which occurs when the placenta detaches from the inner wall of the uterus before baby is delivered. Separation can be partial or complete. Placental previa usually happens in the third trimester even though it can happen anytime from 20 weeks of pregnancy.

What factors increase your risk of placental abruption?

Factors that make you highly susceptible to placental abruption includes

• high blood pressure during pregnancy
• cigarette smoking
• substance abuse
• history of placental previa
• premature rapture of membrane
• older maternal age ( 35 years or older )
• diabetes
• blood order disorder
• carrying multiples
• fibroid
• abdominal trauma

What signs will I experience if I have placental abruption?

Signs of placental abruption includes

• tender uterus
• vaginal bleeding
• back or belly pain
• uterine contraction with no breaks in between

What complications are associated with placental abruption ?

Complications that may accompany placental abruption includes

• premature birth
• failure of kidney and other organs
• blood clotting problems
• hysterectomy
• still birth

I have placental abruption. Is there any hope for me ?

Treatment options depends on  how far along you are in pregnancy and how serious the abruption is.
If your condition is mild and your are 24 to 34 weeks  pregnant, , you will be carefully monitored in the hospital. Your doctor will keep the pregnancy as long as possible as long as baby is doing well. If your conditions worsen  you may need to give birth right away.

However if you have mild abruption and you are near or at full term, your doctor will recommend induced labor or c section.

If your condition is severe, you will give birth right away. Delivery is usually by c section. In rare cases  you may need a hysterectomy if bleeding does not stop.

Is there any way I can reduce my changes of getting placental abruption ?

Take these precautions to reduce your risk of getting placenta previa.

Get early and regular prenatal check-up.

Avoid drinking alcohol, smoking or using recreational drugs during pregnancy.