If the placenta detaches from the uterus before delivery, either partially or completely, this can lead to life-threatening haemorrhage for both mother and baby. When the placenta detaches from the uterus, the baby may no longer receive the oxygen, nutrients and hormones it needs for its development.
Causes may include maternal hypertension in pregnancy or pre-pregnancy, premature rupture of certain retaining membranes, external trauma, cocaine use, the presence of uterine fibroids, and a history of such an event.
Read the full article on: What is placental abruption and why does it occur? ( 53).
By Marta Barranquero Gómez B.Sc., M.Sc. (embryologist).
Last Update: 04/06/2023