The cause of placental abruption is unknown. Certain conditions may increase its chance of occurring. The situation is most severe when the placenta totally separates from the uterine wall. The fetus relies entirely on circulation from the placenta. With separation, it cannot receive blood from the umbilical cord, which is attached to the placenta.
Studies indicate that folic-acid deficiency can play a role in causing placental abruption.
Others suggest maternal smoking and alcohol consumption may make a woman more likely to have placental abruption. A woman who has had placental abruption in the past is at increased risk of having it recur. This can make a pregnancy following placental abruption a high-risk pregnancy. Symptoms of Placental Abruption Symptoms of placental abruption can vary a great deal. There may be heavy bleeding from the vagina, or you may experience no bleeding at all.