Placental Abruption
The placenta is a structure that develops along side the infant in the womb during gestation. Attached to the inner wall of the uterus, its primary function is to provide the growing fetus with nutrients from the mother and to carry away waste products. It also serves as a barrier against certain toxic materials.
In a successful vaginal birth, the placenta follows a few minutes after the infant, which is why it is sometimes known as the afterbirth. However, in rare cases (approximately 1% of pregnancies), the placenta or part of it pulls away from the lining of the uterus early. Known as placental abruption, or abruptio placenta, this is a serious complication that poses a threat to mother and child and requires immediate medical attention.
Symptoms
Placental abruption is the primary cause of excessive bleeding during the later stages of pregnancy. Other symptoms of this condition include:
- Continuous contractions
- Tenderness in the abdomen
- Uterine pain
Effects
While the exact causes of abruptio placenta are not know, it has been linked to a fetal mortality rate of between 20 and 40 percent. Apart from mortality, this condition can also lead to:
- Premature birth
- Lack of oxygen
- Low blood pressure or blood count; and
- Brain damage, in the infant
As well as:
- Hemorrhaging
- Blood clotting problems
- Severe shock; and
- Extreme pain, in the mother
Contact Us
If you or someone you love has been affected by a birth injury or complication and you suspect any degree of medical negligence, get help today by calling the Philadelphia birth injury lawyers of Lowenthal & Abrams, P.C. at 215-238-1130.