What condition may occur due to severe abruptio placenta?

Severe abruptio placenta, which refers to the premature separation of the placenta from the uterus, can have serious implications for the fetus. When this condition occurs, it disrupts the blood supply to the fetus, leading to potential oxygen deprivation and nutrient deficiency. As a result, the fetus is at high risk of being severely compromised or even deceased due to the abrupt end of adequate placental blood flow. This can manifest as fetal distress, decreased fetal movements, or even fetal demise, making it critical to recognize the gravity of the situation.

The other options do not align with the clinical reality of severe abruptio placenta. The presence of a live fetus without symptoms is unrealistic in cases of severe abruption, where impaired circulation would typically lead to observable distress. Abdominal pain is a common symptom associated with this condition; in fact, significant abdominal pain is one of the hallmark signs. Likewise, in cases of severe abruptio placenta, one would expect an abnormal uterine firmness due to bleeding or clot formation, thus contradicting the idea of normal firmness.