It is reasonable to hospitalize women with placenta previa while they are having an acute bleeding episode or uterine contractions. One to two wide-bore intravenous cannulas should be inserted and blood taken for a full blood count and type and screen. In the absence of massive bleeding or other complications, coagulation studies are not helpful. The blood bank must be capable of making available at least 4 units of compatible packed red blood cells and coagulation factors at short notice. Rh immune globulin should be administered to Rh-negative women. A Kleihauer-Bettke test for quantification of fetal-maternal transfusion should also be performed in Rh-negative women because the mother may require increased doses of Rh immune globulin. Small studies have suggested a benefit of tocolytic therapy for women with placenta previa who are having contractions (4). Contractions may lead to cervical effacement and changes in the lower uterine segment, provoking bleeding, which in turn, stimulates contractions, creating a vicious cycle. Steroids should be administered in women between 24 and 34 weeks of gestation, generally at the time of admission for bleeding, to promote fetal lung maturation. The patient and her family should have a neonatology consultation so that the management of the infant after birth may be discussed. In women who have a history of cesarean delivery or uterine surgery, detailed sonography should be performed to exclude placenta accreta.