What is defined as the partial or complete detachment of the placenta prior to delivery?

The condition defined as the partial or complete detachment of the placenta prior to delivery is placental abruption. This occurs when the placenta separates from the uterine wall before the baby is born, which can lead to significant maternal and fetal complications. Symptoms typically include vaginal bleeding, abdominal pain, and signs of fetal distress, depending on the severity of the abruption.

In contrast, placenta previa involves the placenta being located over or near the cervical opening, which can cause bleeding as the cervix begins to efface and dilate during labor. Placental insufficiency refers to the placenta not delivering adequate nutrients and oxygen to the fetus, often leading to growth restrictions, but does not involve detachment. Uterine rupture is a different condition where the uterus tears during pregnancy or labor, which can be a risk factor in women with certain types of previous surgeries on the uterus, but again does not pertain to the detachment of the placenta. Understanding these distinctions clarifies the unique nature of placental abruption and its implications for pregnancy management.