How to Diagnose Placental Abruption
During pregnancy, the placenta’s purpose is to provide nutrients to the growing baby. An uncommon occurrence is when the placenta pulls away from the inner wall of the uterus before delivery. This is called placental abruption. As this happens, the baby is deprived of oxygen and nutrients that are needed for its survival while the mother's body fills with blood. Although uncommon, this is a serious matter that puts both the mother and baby at risk.
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Instructions
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How to Diagnose Placental Abruption
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Placental abruption does not occur usually until after 20 weeks of pregnancy. The first symptoms most women experience are abdominal pain and back pain from the effects of trauma or injury to the abdomen.
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Vaginal bleeding during pregnancy is also a sign of placental abruption. The amount varies, and note that the amount of blood doesn’t coincide with the degree to which the placenta has separated from the inner wall.
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Uterine tenderness is another symptom of placental abruption. Rapid uterine contractions are a sign of a placental abruption.
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Other factors that may contribute to placental abruption include how many times you’ve been pregnant, previous placental abruption(s), high blood pressure, blood clotting disorders, multiple pregnancies, excess amniotic fluid, age, abdominal trauma and substance abuse. If you're not sure, your doctor will perform an exam to determine whether you’ve had a placental abruption.
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Tips & Warnings
Seek emergency care if you have experienced any of these symptoms.
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