The Shocking Truth: Premature Separation of Normally Implanted Placenta
– Placental abruption is a condition in which the placenta separates from the wall of the uterus before birth.
– It can happen partially or completely, leading to a lack of oxygen and nutrients for the baby.
– Symptoms include vaginal bleeding, pain, contractions, discomfort, and tenderness.
– It occurs in about 1 in 100 pregnant individuals.
– Placental abruption is more likely to occur in the third trimester, but can happen after 20 weeks of pregnancy.
– Mild cases can lead to complete separation and may require close monitoring.
– Placental abruption is related to about 1 in 10 premature births.
– Premature babies are at higher risk for health problems, disabilities, and death.
– Placental abruption can cause anemia and life-threatening complications for the pregnant individual and the baby.
– Immediate diagnosis and treatment are necessary to prevent hemorrhage and blood clotting complications.
– Delivery by cesarean birth may be required.
– The causes of placental abruption may include previous abruption, high blood pressure, smoking, cocaine use, physical trauma, age 35 or older, infection in the uterus, preterm labor, early water breaking, issues with the uterus or umbilical cord, excess fluid around the baby, carrying multiples, asthma, family history of abruption, previous c-section, and exposure to air pollution.
– If a person has previously experienced placental abruption, they have a 10% chance of it occurring again in a later pregnancy.
– Measures to reduce the risk of placental abruption include closely monitoring and treating high blood pressure, avoiding smoking or using street drugs, always wearing a seatbelt when in a car, and taking prenatal vitamins with folic acid.
