Which of the following is a risk factor for placental abruption?

• A. Short umbilical cord
• B. Cocaine use/smoking
• C. Abdominal trauma
• D. All of the above

Answer: (D)

Placental abruption, the premature separation of the placenta from the uterine wall, can be influenced by several risk factors, and in this case, the inclusion of all the provided options makes D the correct choice.

Cocaine use and smoking are well-documented risk factors for placental abruption. Both substances can cause vasoconstriction, which may impair blood flow to the placenta, contributing to the risk of detachment.

A short umbilical cord is another factor that may increase the risk of abruption. While it is less commonly recognized, a shorter cord can lead to increased tension on the placenta, potentially leading to separation under certain circumstances.

Abdominal trauma, such as that resulting from a fall or an accident, can also directly cause placental abruption. The physical impact can dislodge the placenta from its attachment point in the uterus, making trauma a significant risk factor.

Since all these factors can independently contribute to the risk of placental abruption, the choice that encompasses them all is the most accurate reflection of the associated risk.