What are five symptoms of placental abruption?

Expectant parents anxiously and excitedly await the day when their little one will arrive. While pregnancy and the birth of a baby should be an exciting and joyous time, it can quickly turn stressful and difficult if pregnancy complications arise.

The March of Dimes cites that placental abruption only affects about one out of 100 women. However, it is a serious complication that could have catastrophic consequences.

What is placental abruption?

The placenta is essential for providing the baby with food and oxygen using the umbilical cord. If the placenta separates partially or fully from the wall of the uterus before birth, placental abruption has occurred and can be extremely dangerous to both mother and child. It could affect your baby’s ability to receive the sustenance they need to survive.

How can you recognize placental abruption?

According to Mayo Clinic, common symptoms of placental abruption include:

• Vaginal bleeding
• Back or abdominal pain
• Constant contractions
• Uterine contractions and tenderness
• Firmness in the uterus or abdomen

When these symptoms present themselves, a doctor or healthcare professional should look at these signs to determine what has happened. In some instances, such as after a moderate or severe placental abruption, an emergency birth may be necessary for the mother’s and child’s safety. Oftentimes, a caesarean section may provide the only possible option.

When a medical professional fails to recognize these symptoms as a placental abruption, or misdiagnoses them, it can lead to serious consequences and endangers mother and child. An attorney well-versed in medical malpractice could assist you in seeking compensation for financial and emotional suffering.