Which maternal factor carries the greatest risk of recurrence of abruptio placentae in a subsequent pregnancy?
- A Multiparity with four previous deliveries
- B Maternal age above 35 years
- C History of abruption in a previous pregnancy ✓
- D Body mass index above 30 kg/m2
Correct answer: C. History of abruption in a previous pregnancy
Explanation
C previous abruption is the strongest predictor of recurrence, with reported recurrence rates around 5 to 15 percent, roughly tenfold the background risk. Chronic hypertension, smoking, cocaine use, and trauma are important causative risk factors, but among the listed options only prior abruption predicts recurrence. Advanced maternal age, grand multiparity, and obesity raise baseline risk modestly and do not approach the recurrence figure.
Reference: Williams Obstetrics, 26th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.