Health information to help you understand symptoms. It isn't a diagnosis.About OwieClear
Check symptoms

Placenta problems (placenta previa or placental abruption)

Also called: Placenta previa, placental abruption, bleeding in late pregnancy

Problems with the placenta that cause bleeding later in pregnancy. Previa covers the cervix (painless bleeding); abruption separates early (painful bleeding and a hard belly).

PreviaPainless bright red bleeding
AbruptionPainful bleeding, hard belly

Overview

Both need emergency care to protect parent and baby.

Symptoms

Common signs:

  • Vaginal bleeding in the second half of pregnancy
  • Belly pain or a hard belly
  • Fewer baby movements
  • Bleeding after sex or between periods

Less common

  • Contractions

When to get medical care

Call 911Call 911 now for: vaginal bleeding in the second half of pregnancy, belly pain or a hard belly, fewer baby movements.
Get care todayMilder symptoms that could be early signs.
See a doctor soonQuestions about lowering your risk.

Causes

Placenta position or separation.

Does it spread or run in families?

  • It isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone else.

Who is more likely to get it

  • Smoking
  • High blood pressure
  • Past C-section
  • Cocaine use

Diagnosis

This is diagnosed in the emergency room or hospital.

The exam

A physical exam.

Tests

Tests, if needed:

  • Ultrasound:
  • Fetal monitoring:

Treatment

Emergency care is needed. While waiting for help:

Self-care

  • Call 911 or go to labor and delivery
  • Don't put anything in the vagina

Prevention

To lower your risk or catch problems early:

  • Don't smoke
  • Control blood pressure

Which doctor treats this

  • Emergency doctors treat it first, in the ER.
  • They may send you to an OB-GYN or midwife; high-risk pregnancies may see a maternal-fetal medicine doctor.

Living with it

  • Keep a simple diary of symptoms, triggers, and medicines to bring to visits.
  • Bring a list of your medicines and questions to each visit.
  • Stay active in ways that feel good to you.
  • Get enough sleep and manage stress.
  • Long-term illness can affect mood. Tell your doctor if you feel down or anxious.

Back to school, work, or sports

  • Recovery time varies. Ask your care team when you can drive, lift, work, and exercise.

For caregivers

  • Go to visits when you can and take notes.
  • Keep a list of medicines, allergies, and doctors in one place.
  • Learn the warning signs that need fast care.
  • Learn CPR. Many hospitals and the Red Cross offer classes.
  • Take breaks and ask for help. Caregivers need care too.

Outlook

Fast care leads to good outcomes for most.

Getting ready for your visit

Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.

What to bring

  • A list of your medicines and supplements
  • Notes on when symptoms started and what makes them better or worse

Questions to ask

  • What follow-up care do I need?
  • How can I prevent this from happening again?

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Placenta problems (placenta previa or placental abruption)

Sources

Last updated 2026-11-12.