In a placental abruption, the placenta separates from the wall of the uterus before the baby is born. The cause is usually unknown, but abruption is more common in women with long-term high blood pressure, those who have had an abruption previously, and women who have had several pregnancies.
Smoking, high alcohol consumption, and drug abuse also increase the risk. Symptoms usually occur suddenly and may include vaginal bleeding, cramps in the abdomen or severe, constant abdominal pain, backache, and reduced fetal movements.
A small abruption is usually treated with bed rest. In severe cases, it may be necessary to induce labor or carry out an emergency caesarean operation.
With treatment, the mother is not usually in danger, but there is a risk of the baby having health problems or dying.