Third-trimester bleeding can point to very different clinical pictures, and in this episode, we’re breaking down two major causes: placenta previa and placental abruption.

Dr. Morgan Taylor explains how to tell the difference between painless, bright red bleeding with a soft uterus in placenta previa and painful, dark red bleeding with a rigid “board-like” uterus and fetal distress in placental abruption. You’ll review the pathophysiology, key assessment findings, fetal heart rate concerns, and priority nursing interventions for each condition.

We’ll also work through an NCLEX-style practice question so you can apply the differences with confidence on exams and in clinical practice.

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