Placental Abruption: Care Instructions
Overview
The placenta forms during pregnancy to give nutrients and oxygen to the baby. It also removes waste products. Normally, the placenta attaches to the wall of the uterus until the baby is born. Sometimes, the placenta separates from the uterus before birth. This is called placental abruption. It also may be called abruptio placenta.
Your doctor will watch your condition closely to make sure you and your baby are okay. A minor abruption can sometimes be watched closely until delivery. But any bleeding or pain during pregnancy is cause for concern. Call your doctor, midwife, or nurse advice line if you have any bleeding or pain. Sometimes a caesarean delivery must be done.
Follow-up care is a key part of your treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and call your doctor or nurse advice line (811 in most provinces and territories) if you are having problems. It's also a good idea to know your test results and keep a list of the medicines you take.
How can you care for yourself at home?
- Do not do any heavy activity. Do not run or lift anything that weighs more than 9 kilograms (20 pounds).
- Do not smoke. It can limit the blood flow to your baby. If you need help quitting, talk to your doctor or midwife about stop-smoking programs and medicines. These can increase your chances of quitting for good.
- Ask your doctor or midwife whether you can have vaginal sex.
- Do not put anything into your vagina.
- Have a phone nearby at all times in case you begin to bleed and need to call your doctor, midwife, or nurse advice line right away.
When should you call for help?
Call 911 anytime you think you may need emergency care. For example, call if:
- You passed out (lost consciousness).
- You have severe vaginal bleeding. This means you are soaking through a pad each hour for 2 or more hours.
- You have sudden, severe pain in your belly or pelvis.
Call your healthcare provider, midwife, or nurse advice line now or seek immediate medical care if:
- You have any vaginal bleeding.
- You are dizzy or light-headed, or you feel like you may faint.
- You have pain in your belly, pelvis, or lower back.
- You have a sudden release of fluid from your vagina.
- You think that you are in labour or are having contractions of your uterus with or without pain (6 or more in 1 hour).
- You are in your third trimester, and you notice that your baby has stopped moving or moves less than 6 times in 2 hours.
Watch closely for changes in your health, and be sure to contact your healthcare provider, midwife, or nurse advice line if you have any questions or concerns.
Where can you learn more?
Go to https://www.healthwise.net/patientEd
Enter U348 in the search box to learn more about "Placental Abruption: Care Instructions".
Adaptation Date: 9/6/2023
Adapted By: Alberta Health Services
Adaptation Reviewed By: Alberta Health Services
