A 25-year-old woman is concerned about her 10-week pregnancy after a low-speed motor vehicle accident. What should you primarily be worried about regarding her condition?

In the case of a pregnant woman involved in a motor vehicle accident, one of the primary concerns is an abruptio placenta, which is the premature separation of the placenta from the uterine wall. This condition can lead to significant complications for both the mother and the fetus, including bleeding, fetal distress, and potential loss of the pregnancy.

Given the circumstances of the accident, even if it was low-speed, the trauma to the body can exert forces on the abdomen that may trigger this serious complication. The signs of an abruptio placenta may include abdominal pain, vaginal bleeding, and changes in fetal heart rate, requiring immediate medical attention.

While a broken pelvis, abdominal contusion, or fractured rib could also result from a vehicle accident, they do not have the same level of direct risk to the pregnancy as an abruptio placenta. The health and stability of the placenta are critical in the early stages of pregnancy, making it the most pressing concern in this scenario. Thus, focusing on the risk of placental separation can guide appropriate evaluation and intervention.