Which finding would you expect to note in abruptio placentae?

• A. Soft uterus
• B. Abdominal pain
• C. Nontender uterus
• D. Painless vaginal bleeding

Answer: (B)

Placental abruption causes painful vaginal bleeding with a tender, often rigid uterus. The placenta begins to detach from the uterine wall, irritating the uterine muscle and triggering painful contractions, so abdominal pain is a key sign. The uterus tends to be firm and tender (hypertonic), which helps distinguish abruption from other causes of third-trimester bleeding.

In contrast, painless vaginal bleeding with a soft, non-tender uterus points to placenta previa, not abruption. A soft or non-tender uterus isn’t typical of placental abruption, and the absence of pain would steer you away from this diagnosis.