Diagnosis may be aided by ultrasonography. The advisability of a speculum exam is debatable. Digital examination is contraindicated other than in a double setup situation when delivery is desirable and can be rapidly accomplished by C-section. Maternal risk factors include increasing age, multiparity, and prior uterine scar. Associated with breech and transverse presentations.
Severe abruption is rare.
Mild shock and fetal distress may be present. Fetal demise and maternal coagulopathy are characteristic. The diagnosis of placental abruption is clinical. Thus, the maternal hemodynamic situation may not be explained by observed blood loss. Pain and increased uterine tone are typically present.