Can placental abruption cause severe abdominal pain in pregnancy?

Placental abruption happens when the placenta separates from the womb wall before birth. Pain may be sudden, constant, or accompanied by a firm, tender womb. Vaginal bleeding can occur, but visible bleeding is not always present because blood may remain behind the placenta. Other warning signs include back pain, contractions, reduced fetal movement, or feeling faint. Several pregnancy problems can cause abdominal pain, so symptoms cannot identify the cause without an examination.

If you have severe abdominal pain while pregnant, contact emergency maternity services immediately. Do not drive yourself if you feel weak, dizzy, or unwell. Note when the pain began, whether it is constant, any bleeding or fluid loss, and whether fetal movement has changed. Keep your maternity records available and follow the emergency team's instructions while arranging assessment.

Seek emergency care for severe or worsening pain, vaginal bleeding, a rigid or very tender abdomen, contractions, fainting, breathing difficulty, or reduced fetal movement. These signs require prompt assessment of your health and the baby, regardless of whether bleeding is visible.

Ask what examinations and monitoring are needed, how the baby's wellbeing will be checked, what other causes of pain were considered, and which symptoms should prompt an immediate return.