Final answer:
The symptoms described are indicative of placental abruption, which is a serious pregnancy complication where the placenta detaches from the uterine wall and can cause severe abdominal pain, a firm uterus, and painful contractions.
Step-by-step explanation:
The symptoms of abdominal pain, painful contractions, and a firm uterus could be indicative of several conditions related to pregnancy. These symptoms are suggestive of a critical obstetric complication and should be promptly evaluated by healthcare professionals.
The correct answer is a) Placental abruption. Placental abruption occurs when the placenta detaches from the uterine wall before delivery, which can cause severe abdominal pain, a firm uterus, and painful contractions. Ectopic pregnancy usually presents earlier in pregnancy and not with a firm uterus. Braxton Hicks contractions are usually painless and do not cause a firm uterus, while uterine rupture is a medical emergency characterized by a sudden sharp pain, and the uterus may not necessarily feel firm to touch but rather unusual or misshapen.