The lessons included are

• Lesson 1: Gynecologic Emergencies: Assessment & Care
• Lesson 2: Normal Pregnancy & Physiology of Labor
• Lesson 3: Complications of Pregnancy & Labor
• Lesson 4: Emergency Delivery & Postpartum Care
• Lesson 5: Neonatal Assessment & Care
• Lesson 6:  Special Situations & Sexual Assault

Excerpt from EMS Care EMT Chapter 24-MCIT-F3-2127 | Gynecologic, Obstetric & Neonatal Emergencies

Placenta Previa & Abruption:  These two conditions present differently, but both are life-threatening emergencies.

Placenta previa typically presents with painless bleeding, while abruption usually involves severe pain. This condition affects around 0.3% to 0.5% of pregnancies, with a 1.5 to 5 times increased risk if the patient has had a previous cesarean section. Therefore, it is crucial to inquire about prior cesarean deliveries during patient history-taking.   Fetal mortality rates associated with placenta previa range from approximately 2% to 3%.

In placenta previa, the placenta covers the opening in the mother’s cervix. This becomes an issue when the cervix starts to thin and dilate, prepping for birth, causing the blood vessels connecting the placenta to the uterus to tear. Remember that the placenta is a very vessel-rich organ, as it is key in providing oxygen and nutrients to the growing fetus. In placenta abruption, the placenta detaches from the uterine wall. This can happen due to trauma, but it can also happen without trauma.