What are the signs and symptoms of abruptio placenta?

Abruptio placenta, or placental abruption, is a serious condition in pregnancy where the placenta detaches from the uterine wall before delivery, leading to various clinical signs and symptoms. One of the hallmark symptoms is the presence of rapid or continuous uterine contractions. This occurs due to the irritation and stimulation of the uterine muscles caused by the bleeding and tearing of the placenta. These contractions can be persistent and may become stronger as the condition progresses, often leading to significant discomfort and heralding further complications.

In contrast to the other options provided, which represent different obstetric conditions, the presence of rapid or continuous contractions specifically correlates with the physiological response to the complications stemming from abruptio placenta. Painless vaginal bleeding is often more characteristic of a different condition known as placenta previa, while low amniotic fluid levels (oligohydramnios) can occur for various reasons unrelated to abruptio placenta and does not directly signal the presence of this condition. Long labor duration is also not a defining characteristic of abruptio placenta. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for identifying and managing risks associated with late pregnancy complications.