Which of the following is a classic sign of placental abruption?

Continued abdominal pain is indeed a classic sign of placental abruption. This condition occurs when the placenta partially or completely separates from the uterine wall before delivery, leading to pain and often significant distress. The abdominal pain is typically described as constant and can range from mild to severe, depending on the extent of the abruption and associated complications.

In cases of placental abruption, the pain is often accompanied by other symptoms such as vaginal bleeding, but the pain itself is a key indicator that sets this condition apart from others. This pain is a result of the underlying physical detachment and associated inflammation and can sometimes be mistaken for normal contractions, yet it manifests as a distinct symptom due to the nature of the injury to the surrounding tissues.

Understanding this aspect of placental abruption is crucial for healthcare providers, as prompt recognition and management are necessary to minimize risks to both the mother and the infant. In contrast, painless bleeding is more characteristic of placenta previa, severe headache is more typical in conditions like preeclampsia, and regular contractions may suggest labor rather than an abruption.