Treatment for placental abruption

Placental abruption occurs when the placenta separates from the uterus before birth. It can cause vaginal bleeding, abdominal or back pain, a firm or tender uterus, contractions, or changes in the baby’s heart rate. Visible bleeding may not show the full amount of blood loss, so assessment is needed even when bleeding seems limited.

The maternity team may monitor vital signs, bleeding, contractions, blood tests, and the baby’s heart rate. Treatment can include intravenous fluids, blood products when needed, medicines, and preparation for birth. Decisions depend on the pregnancy stage, the amount of bleeding, labour progress, and the condition of parent and baby.

Go to a maternity unit or emergency department immediately if you have bleeding, persistent abdominal pain, painful contractions, or reduced fetal movement. Do not drive yourself if you feel faint or unwell. Take your pregnancy records and medication list if this does not delay departure.

If urgent delivery is required, the team may recommend a Caesarean Section or another birth plan based on the clinical situation. Follow instructions about monitoring, food and drink, and medicines while the team prepares care.

Treat vaginal bleeding with abdominal or back pain, a hard tender abdomen, regular painful contractions, faintness, severe weakness, or reduced fetal movement as an emergency. Call emergency services if you collapse, have severe breathlessness, or cannot reach maternity care safely.

Do not wait for bleeding to become heavy. Abruption can develop quickly, and urgent assessment helps the team respond to changes in your condition or the baby’s wellbeing.

Once you are safe and stable, ask what the monitoring shows, how the placenta and baby are being assessed, what would trigger delivery, and which birth options are available. Ask about recovery, future pregnancy planning, and warning signs after discharge.