abruptio placenta

Early separation of the placenta (a structure in the womb that develops during pregnancy to nourish the fetus and help it discard waste) from the uterus (the female reproductive organ that houses the embryo and fetus during pregnancy). When the placenta separates from the uterus early there is an increased risk of hemorrhaging (excessive bleeding) during pregnancy and childbirth. Abruptio placenta most commonly occurs in the third trimester (the last 3 months) of pregnancy. Symptoms of abruptio placenta include vaginal bleeding, constant abdominal pain or back pain.