What happens if placental abruption occurs during labor?

The placenta normally remains attached until after the baby is born. If it separates during labor, the uterus may become painful or unusually firm and contractions can become frequent. Blood may be visible, but it can also collect behind the placenta. The baby’s oxygen supply may be affected, which is why continuous fetal monitoring and repeated checks of the mother are often needed.

Tell the midwife or obstetrician immediately about new pain, bleeding, pressure, or reduced fetal movement. The team may place intravenous access, take blood samples, monitor blood pressure and the baby’s heart rate, and prepare blood products if needed. If the baby is stable and birth is close, vaginal birth may remain possible with close supervision. If either patient is becoming unsafe, urgent birth, including a Caesarean Section, may be recommended.

During labor, report any fresh bleeding, constant abdominal pain between contractions, a rigid or tender uterus, faintness, breathlessness, or a sudden change in fetal movement. If you are at home, call emergency services rather than travelling alone. Do not wait for the next scheduled appointment.

Ask how the fetal heart tracing looks, whether the bleeding is affecting your blood pressure or clotting, which birth route is safest, and what support will be available after delivery.