Postpartum care for placenta previa; monitor for which risk?

• A. Infection
• B. Hemorrhage
• C. Chronic hypertension
• D. Disseminated intravascular coagulation

Answer: (B)

The key concept is that placenta previa increases the risk of postpartum hemorrhage due to abnormal placental separation after delivery. When the placenta implants low in the uterus, it can detach in a way that causes heavy bleeding or may be associated with retained placental tissue, both leading to substantial blood loss after the baby is born. Because of this, monitoring for signs of hemorrhage—such as heavy vaginal bleeding, a soft or boggy uterus that doesn’t firm up with massage, and vital sign changes like tachycardia or hypotension—is the priority in the postpartum period. While infection or coagulation issues can occur, the most immediate and specific risk to watch for with placenta previa after birth is hemorrhage, and prompt management with uterine tone support and potential interventions is essential.