| Feature | Placental Abruption | Placenta Previa | Uterine Rupture |
| Signs and Symptoms
| |||
| – Onset | Sudden | Often gradual | Sudden |
| – Bleeding | Vaginal bleeding (usually dark) | Painless bright red vaginal bleeding | Vaginal bleeding |
| – Pain | Severe abdominal pain | Usually, painless | Severe abdominal pain |
| – Uterine Activity | Uterine tenderness, contractions/increased uterine tone | Uterus soft and relaxed | Loss of uterine tone |
| – Foetal Distress | Foetal distress is common | Foetal distress is less common | Foetal distress is common |
| Investigations
| |||
| – Initial Investigation | Cardiotocography (CTG) | Ultrasound (preferably transvaginal) | Cardiotocography (CTG) |
| – Follow-up Investigation | Vaginal ultrasound (if CTG normal) | None, ultrasound is definitive | Ultrasound or MRI for diagnosis |
| Management
| |||
| – Immediate Actions | Perform CTG, if foetal distress urgent C-section | Avoid digital or speculum exam until placenta previa is ruled out | Perform CTG, immediate surgical intervention if confirmed |
| – Definitive Treatment | Urgent C-section if foetal distress; stabilize mother | Planned C-section if diagnosed; emergency C-section if bleeding | Emergency surgical repair or C-section |
| – Monitoring | Continuous foetal monitoring | Continuous foetal monitoring | Continuous foetal monitoring |
| – Blood Loss Management | Manage blood loss and stabilize maternal hemodynamic | Blood transfusion if necessary | Manage blood loss and stabilize maternal hemodynamic |
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