A patient presenting with vaginal bleeding in late pregnancy may have which of the following conditions?

A patient presenting with vaginal bleeding in late pregnancy may indeed have placenta previa, which is a condition where the placenta is implanted in the lower uterine segment, covering all or part of the cervix. This placement can lead to bleeding, particularly as the cervix begins to dilate and efface in preparation for labor. The bleeding can be painless and may occur suddenly, making it significant in the assessment of pregnant patients.

In comparison, gestational hypertension primarily involves increased blood pressure without the characteristic bleeding, making it less likely to be the immediate cause for vaginal bleeding. Hyperemesis gravidarum involves severe nausea and vomiting, which does not relate to vaginal bleeding. Spontaneous abortion typically refers to the loss of pregnancy before the 20th week and usually presents with cramping and bleeding, but in late pregnancy, it is not as relevant since the individual is further along in gestation. Thus, placenta previa is the condition most directly associated with vaginal bleeding in the context of late pregnancy.