Couvelaire uterus is associated with which pregnancy complication?

Couvelaire uterus, which is also known as a "purple uterus," occurs when there is bleeding into the myometrium due to a placental abruption. This condition is characterized by a disruption of the maternal-fetal interface, where the placenta detaches partially or completely from the uterine wall before delivery. As a result, the blood that accumulates within the uterine muscle leads to a discoloration of the uterus, resembling a bruise.

The connection between Couvelaire uterus and placental abruption is significant because the problem arises from the very nature of the abruption, where hemorrhage can occur. The clinical implications of a Couvelaire uterus are serious, as they can indicate the potential for increased maternal and fetal morbidity and mortality. This situation requires careful monitoring and often urgent management to ensure the safety of both mother and baby.

Other choices, while related to pregnancy complications, do not have the same direct association with Couvelaire uterus. For instance, placenta previa involves the placenta covering the cervical opening, which presents different risks, and conditions like gestational diabetes and hyperemesis gravidarum are metabolic and gastrointestinal issues respectively that do not directly cause bleeding into the myometrium.