Antepartum Hemorrhage

Placenta praevia refers to when the placenta of a growing foetus is attached abnormally low within the uterus. Intermittent antepartum haemorrhaging occurs in 72% of women living with placenta praevia. The severity of a patient's placenta praevia depends on the location of placental attachment; Abnormal placentation, Placental abruption. Use of aspirin before 16 weeks of pregnancy to prevent pre-eclampsia also appears effective at preventing antepartum bleeding. In regard to treatment, it should be considered a medical emergency (regardless of whether there is pain), as if it is left untreated it can lead to death of the mother or baby.

These risk factors include previous APH, previous cesarean section, advanced maternal age (age greater than 35), urban/rural residence, previous termination of pregnancy (curettage), pregnancy-induced hypertension (PIH), multi-parity, and multiple pregnancy.