Placental Abruption – Causes, Symptoms & Treatments

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Pregnancy is the most wonderful phase of a woman’s life. However, the few weeks before the delivery are utterly crucial because there is a risk of the placental abruption. Now, before you start worrying, relax. If your doctor has spoken to you about it, great. Otherwise, read on to know more.
Also known as placenta abruptio or abruptio placentae, placental abruption is when either a part of the placenta or the whole unit, detaches itself from the uterus wall, days before the scheduled delivery. But, what is a placenta? It is an organ, which develops inside the woman’s womb after her conception. It is responsible to provide the required nourishment and the oxygen to the fetus. In very rare cases, placental abruption can be gravely dangerous for both the mother and the baby.

Causes

Although it is difficult to recognise the exact reason for placental abruption, the most plausible causes are;
  • Abdominal trauma because of an injury, a fall or an accident
  • A sudden reduction of the amniotic fluid. Amniotic fluid is what surrounds the fetus inside the womb, protecting it.

Symptoms

The symptoms can be mild at first or can be forceful, abruptly. They are;
  • Abdominal pain
  • Vaginal bleeding
  • Back pain
  • Severe and fast uterine contractions
  • Tenderness or hardness of the uterine
If you notice these symptoms, even in a mild manner, talk to your healthcare provider immediately. Any delay in action can be harmful to the baby.

Treatment

Depending on the gravity of the situation, your doctor will come up with a treatment plan. Influencing factors are your delivery date, fetal health, etc.
  • If the placental abruption is not severe, your doctor will ask you to take medications to stop the preterm labor (if you experience it) and to help in the growth of the baby’s lungs (if necessary).
  • If it is critical, you will be admitted to the hospital and the condition of the baby is checked. Sometimes, during severe cases, an early delivery is necessary, and you might undergo a caesarean.
  • In cases of excessive bleeding, blood transfusion is also a must.