In the third stage of labor, what indicates retained placenta?

In the third stage of labor, the retention of the placenta can be indicated by the absence of a separation gush with active bleeding. Typically, once the placenta separates from the uterine wall, there is a characteristic gush of blood as the placenta is expelled. If this gush does not occur and there is significant vaginal bleeding instead, it raises concern for retained placenta, as the placenta may not have detached properly from the uterine wall.

The other indicators, while they may relate to the process of labor or postpartum complications, do not specifically signal retained placenta in the same direct way. Lengthening of the cord might suggest that the placenta is still attached but does not confirm retention as the only issue. Severe abdominal pain might indicate other complications, such as uterine atony or hematoma formation, which aren't specific to retained placenta. Increased fetal movement is not relevant in this context, as it pertains more to fetal well-being rather than placental status following delivery.