Placenta Abruptio: Exams And Tests
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Exams and Tests
A separation of the placenta from the uterine wall, or placenta abruptio, can be difficult to identify. Diagnosis is based on a physical exam, a medical history, and a process of elimination. Testing may include:
- Fetal heart monitoring, to assess the fetus's condition and check for contractions of the uterus.
- An ultrasound test, which can detect about 50% of placental abruptions.1 A negative ultrasound result does not necessarily guarantee that the placenta is intact.
- A blood test for anemia. A woman with placenta abruptio can become anemic from excessive blood loss.
| Last updated: | February 26, 2008 |
|---|---|
| Author: | Monica Rhodes |
| Reviewed By: | Sarah Marshall, MD - Family Medicine, William Gilbert, MD - Perinatology |
| Editors: | Kathleen M. Ariss, MS, Pat Truman, MATC |
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