ABSTRACT
A case of severe abruptio placentae evolved during the course of prepartum electronic
fetal heart rate (FHR) monitoring which was associated with nipple stimulation. The
fetal monitor tracing and clinical course are discussed. The unpredictability of abruptio
placentae is underscored by the normal appearance of the FHR tracing immediately preceding
the event. The association of nipple stimulation with abruptio placentae in this case
raises concerns about the potential dangers of this surveillance technique.
