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Placenta previa — USMLE Step 3 MCQ

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ModerateOB/GYN (prenatal care, contraception, screening)Placenta previaUSMLE Step 3

A 32-year-old woman at 31 weeks' gestation has painless bright red vaginal bleeding. Uterus is nontender and fetal heart tracing is reassuring. She has a history of prior cesarean delivery. Which of the following is the most likely diagnosis?

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Correct answer: C — Placenta previa

Painless third-trimester bleeding with prior cesarean risk suggests placenta previa; digital examination should be avoided until placental location is known.

Reference: ACOG Placenta Accreta Spectrum/Antepartum Bleeding Guidance