Abruptio placentae refers to which event?

• A. The placenta detaches from the uterine wall after childbirth.
• B. The placenta implants abnormally in the lower uterine segment.
• C. The placenta detaches from the uterine wall before childbirth.
• D. The placenta separates from the uterine wall before childbirth.

Answer: (C)

Abruptio placentae is the premature separation of the placenta from the uterine wall before the baby is born. This detachment disrupts placental blood flow, often causing painful vaginal bleeding and a tender, firm uterus, and it can lead to significant risks for both mother (hemorrhage, shock) and fetus (hypoxia). It typically occurs after about 20 weeks of gestation and can be partial or complete. This condition is distinct from placenta previa, where the placenta implants low in the uterus and bleeding is usually painless, and from normal placental separation, which happens after delivery. The event described matches the idea of the placenta detaching before childbirth, which is why it’s the correct interpretation. Management focuses on stabilizing the mother and fetus and delivering if there’s ongoing distress or instability; risk factors include hypertension, trauma, smoking, cocaine use, and a history of placental abruption.