HealthAugust 17, 2026

abruption

uh-BRUP-shun

Definition

The premature detachment of the placenta from the wall of the uterus before the baby is born.

Etymology

Derived from the Latin 'abruptio,' meaning 'a breaking off,' which itself comes from the verb 'abrumpere' (to break off or tear away).

In the news

The medical team took precautions during the EXIT procedure to avoid placental abruption, which would be a life-threatening complication for both the mother and the fetus.

This Fetus Had a Parasitic Twin in an Unusual Location

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MedPage Today

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