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Treatments and drugs
By Mayo Clinic staffIt isn't possible to reattach a placenta that's separated from the wall of the uterus. Treatment options for placental abruption depend on the circumstances:
- The baby isn't close to full term. If the abruption seems mild, your baby's heart rate is normal and it's too soon for the baby to be born — generally before 34 weeks of pregnancy — you might be hospitalized for close monitoring. If the bleeding stops and your baby's condition is stable, you might be able to rest at home. In some cases, you might be given medication to help your baby's lungs mature, in case early delivery becomes necessary.
- The baby is close to full term. If your baby is almost full term — generally after 34 weeks of pregnancy — and the placental abruption seems minimal, a closely monitored vaginal delivery might be possible. If the abruption progresses or jeopardizes your health or your baby's health, you'll need an immediate delivery — usually by C-section. If you experience severe bleeding, you might need a blood transfusion.
References
- Ananth CV, et al. Clinical features and diagnosis of placental abruption. http://www.uptodate.com/index.html. Accessed Oct. 13, 2011.
- Oyelese Y, et al. Management and outcome of pregnancies complicated by placental abruption. http://www.uptodate.com/index.html. Accessed Oct. 13, 2011.
- American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. Your Pregnancy and Childbirth Month to Month. 5th ed. Washington, D.C.: American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists; 2010:373.
- Obstetrical hemorrhage. In: Cunningham FG, et al. Williams Obstetrics. 23rd ed. New York, N.Y.; The McGraw-Hill Companies; 2010. http://www.accessmedicine.com/resourceTOC.aspx?resourceID=46. Accessed Oct. 14, 2011.
- Harms RW (expert opinion). Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn. Oct. 22, 2011.
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