What is Placenta Previa?
During pregnancy, the placenta normally attaches to the upper part of your uterus, where it can easily pass nutrients and oxygen to your baby. Placenta previa is when the placenta is positioned in the lower part of the uterus, covering the cervix or being close to it. The cervix needs to open during labor, so when the placenta is in the way, vaginal delivery becomes dangerous. In most cases, a cesarean section (C-section) will be needed to safely deliver the baby.
There are four types of placenta previa:
- Complete placenta previa: The placenta completely covers the cervix.
- Partial placenta previa: The placenta partially covers the cervix.
- Marginal placenta previa: The placenta is at the edge of the cervix but doesn’t cover it.
- Low-lying placenta: The placenta is lower in the uterus but doesn’t reach the cervix.
What Causes Placenta Previa?
The exact cause of placenta previa isn’t always clear, but certain factors can increase the chances of developing it. These factors include:
- Previous cesarean sections: If you’ve had a C-section in the past, you are more likely to have placenta previa in future pregnancies.
- Multiple pregnancies: Carrying more than one baby (twins, triplets, etc.) raises the risk.
- Advanced maternal age: Women over 35 are at a higher risk for placenta previa.
- Previous placenta previa: If you had this condition during a previous pregnancy, you are at greater risk of having it again.
- Abnormalities in the uterus: Conditions like fibroids or a misshapen uterus can also increase the risk.
- Lifestyle factors: Smoking and drug use during pregnancy can increase your risk.
Symptoms of Placenta Previa
The main symptom of placenta previa is painless vaginal bleeding, which usually occurs during the second or third trimester. The bleeding can range from light to heavy and may stop and start again. In some cases, there may not be any symptoms, and the condition is only discovered during an ultrasound.
Other symptoms may include:
- Abdominal pain or cramps
- Contractions that happen earlier than expected
- The baby might not be positioned in the usual head-down position
If you experience bleeding during pregnancy, it’s important to contact your healthcare provider immediately. While bleeding can be a sign of placenta previa, it may also indicate other pregnancy complications.
How is Placenta Previa Diagnosed?
Doctors usually discover placenta previa through an ultrasound, a safe test that uses sound waves to create an image of the inside of your uterus. Most women get an ultrasound between 18 and 20 weeks of pregnancy. If the placenta is low-lying at that point, it may move up as the pregnancy progresses, and the issue may resolve on its own. However, a follow-up ultrasound later in the pregnancy is often needed to confirm the diagnosis.
Your doctor may also do a pelvic exam, but they’ll avoid this if you have any bleeding, as it can make things worse.
Potential Risks and Complications
Placenta previa can lead to serious complications, including:
- Severe bleeding: This is the biggest concern, as it can be life-threatening for both the mother and the baby. If bleeding becomes heavy, immediate medical attention is needed.
- Preterm birth: Placenta previa increases the chances of delivering before the baby is fully developed, which can lead to health issues for the baby.
- Placental abruption: This occurs when the placenta starts to separate from the uterine wall too early, leading to bleeding and other complications.
- Need for a cesarean section (C-section): Since a vaginal birth can cause dangerous bleeding, most women with placenta previa will need to have a C-section for a safe delivery.
How is Placenta Previa Treated?
The treatment for placenta previa depends on how far along you are in your pregnancy, how much bleeding you’re having, and the overall health of you and your baby. Some treatment options include:
- Bed rest and limiting activity: If you have minor bleeding, your doctor may recommend staying in bed or limiting physical activity to reduce the chances of more bleeding.
- Hospitalization: If bleeding becomes heavy, you may need to stay in the hospital for close monitoring. You might be given fluids or blood products if necessary.
- Steroid shots: If early delivery is possible, steroids may be given to help your baby’s lungs mature faster, reducing the risks of prematurity.
- C-section delivery: Since vaginal delivery is too risky, most women with placenta previa will need a cesarean delivery. Your doctor will determine the right time for the surgery, depending on how far along you are and how the pregnancy is progressing.
- Frequent monitoring: You’ll likely need regular ultrasounds to track the position of the placenta and make sure everything is progressing normally.
Can Placenta Previa Be Prevented?
Unfortunately, placenta previa can’t always be prevented, but there are a few things you can do to reduce the risk:
- Quit smoking: Smoking increases the chances of placenta previa.
- Get regular prenatal care: Regular doctor visits and ultrasounds can help catch any issues early, including placenta previa.
Placenta previa can sound worrying, but with proper care and attention, many women with the condition go on to deliver healthy babies. If you’re diagnosed with placenta previa, your doctor will monitor you closely throughout the rest of your pregnancy and plan for a safe delivery. Remember that if you notice any bleeding or unusual symptoms, it’s important to seek help right away.
Consult Dr. Swathi Women’s clinic for expert guidance!
