• Separation of the placenta from the uterus after 20 weeks of pregnancy but before birth
• Symptoms may include abdominal pain or tenderness, fetal distress, and vaginal bleeding
• Cause unknown but may include factors such as injury to mother, maternal high blood pressure, those with history of placental abruption, and those carrying multiple fetuses
• Can occur at any age but more common in older women
• Can be life threatening to fetus and mother without prompt treatment

Rest at home

FOR COUGH

Increase fluids (especially water)

Suck on cough drops or hard sweets (candy)

Use a cool air humidifier in room

Avoid lung irritants such as smoke, household cleaners or allergens

Over-the-counter cough medicine (refer to manufacturer’s recommendations for dosage):

Guaifenesin

Dextromethorphan

FOR FEVER

Apply cool cloth to forehead or armpits

Drink plenty of fluids (especially water)

Avoid alcohol, tea and coffee as these drinks can cause slight dehydration

Over-the-counter medicine (refer to manufacturer’s recommendations for dosage):

Acetaminophen

Ibuprofen

Aspirin (Do not give to children or adolescents)

FOR PAIN

Apply hot or cold packs to the area

Relaxation techniques

Distraction

Over-the-counter medicine (refer to manufacturer’s recommendations for dosage):

Acetaminophen

Ibuprofen