Placental Abruption, sometimes called an “abruption placentae,” is the premature separation of the placenta from the wall of the uterus (or womb) before the baby is delivered. Since an abruption can cause severe harm to both mother and baby, its prompt diagnosis is critical to implementing the appropriate medical interventions, which often includes expeditious delivery by cesarean section.

Risk Factors For Placental Abruption

Skilled medical professionals recognize several “risk factors” that are associated with an increased risk of placental abruption, including:

• High Blood Pressure.Also known as “hypertension,” this increases the risk of placental abruption, whether it started before or during the pregnancy.
• Age of Mother.Older mothers are more likely to experience placental abruption. The risk significantly increases after age 35.
• Abdominal Trauma.Getting struck in the abdomen by something during the pregnancy can increase the risk of abruption.
• Smoking and Drug Use.Smoking and/or use of illicit drugs or stimulants during pregnancy, such as cocaine, may increase the risk.
• Premature Rupture of Membranes. When the amniotic sac breaks or leaks prematurely, the risk of placental abruptionmay increase.
• Multiples.The risk of problems with the placenta increases when more babies share it.
• Twins, Triplets, or More.The risk of problems with the placenta increases when more babies share it.
• Previous Placental Abruption. Mothers who have experienced placental abruptionbefore are at a higher risk of experiencing it again.

Injuries Cause By Placental Abruption

The consequences of placental abruption can be catastrophic for both mother and child. Hemorrhage, organ failure, permanent brain damage and death can occur because of this medical emergency. Therefore, competent and safe medical professionals should be screening their patients for risk factors and indications of abruption. Proper management of the at-risk patient may include bed rest, hospital admission and continuous monitoring, medication and/or emergent delivery of the baby.

Contact A Placental Abruption Lawyer In California

If you believe that you or your loved one has been injured because of a preventable error in managing a placental abruption, call the medical malpractice lawyers at Mulligan Law. Our firm of California medical negligence lawyers has extensive experience in handling the legal claims of families whose loved ones have been injured as a result of a placental abruption. There is no cost to call and have your case evaluated by our team of personal injury attorneys and medical malpractice professionals.

Please note that the information on this page is based on past cases and research in public sources performed by a law firm. It is NOT intended to be medical advice. If you suspect that you or a loved one is at risk for placental abruption, contact your doctor immediately.