Intermediate
Technical
In the Industry Vocabulary Test
Retained placenta
Failure of the placenta to deliver within 30 minutes of infant birth or incomplete placental delivery.
Full Definition
A postpartum complication occurring in 0.5-3% of vaginal deliveries, where all or part of the placenta remains in the uterus after the third stage of labor. This condition can lead to postpartum hemorrhage, infection, and requires prompt medical intervention including manual removal, curettage, or surgical evacuation. Risk factors include previous retained placenta, preterm delivery, and prolonged labor.
Usage
Usage note: May refer to complete retention or retained fragments; context determines severity.
In Context
- "Manual exploration revealed retained placental fragments requiring curettage." — Postpartum procedure note
- "Ultrasound confirmed retained placenta with increased risk of hemorrhage." — Diagnostic imaging report
Also known as
retained products of conception
incomplete placental delivery
Contrasted with
complete placental delivery
Don't confuse with
placental fragments
succenturiate lobe