Which symptom is characteristic of mild abruptio placenta?

Mild abruptio placenta, or placental abruption, involves the premature separation of the placenta from the uterine wall. This condition can lead to varying symptoms, and in mild cases, one might observe a non-tender uterus. The absence of tenderness is characteristic because there is typically less associated inflammation and muscular reaction compared to severe cases of placental abruption, which can present with more significant abdominal pain and a firm, tender uterus due to uterine contractions and irritation.

In mild cases, the body's response may not be as dramatic, which is why the uterus can remain non-tender. Additionally, in more serious instances of abruptio placenta, one might find severe abdominal pain, indications of shock due to blood loss, and a firm and tender uterus; however, these symptoms align more with moderate to severe cases rather than with mild abruptio placenta. Therefore, identifying a non-tender uterus can help clinicians differentiate the severity of the condition and guide appropriate management.