Verified By Dr Anuradha Panda February 5, 2023
2822The placenta is an organ which develops during pregnancy. It provides oxygen & nutrition to the baby and removes wastes & toxins. The placenta is attached to the baby via the umbilical cord. At most times, the placenta is attached at the top or side of the uterus, away from the cervix. Placenta previa takes place when the baby’s placenta ends up covering the mother’s cervix partially or totally.
Also, known as low-lying placenta, Placenta Previa occurs if the placenta covers a part or the mother’s entire cervix during the last few months of pregnancy. Generally, as the pregnancy progresses, the placenta moves to the top of the womb allowing the cervix to be a clear path for delivery. The women who develop placenta previa undergo bleeding both before and during labor. This happens because during labor, the opening of the cervix can cause blood vessels which connect the placenta and the uterus to tear. This makes it risky for both the mother and the baby. So, to prevent this from happening, if the placenta previa does not resolve, you will need a C-section to deliver your baby.
There are four main types of placenta previa, varying from minor to major. Each has its own type of treatment plan and determines whether the mother can have a normal delivery or will need a C-section. The types are:
It is quite possible that you would not even know that you have placenta previa until and unless your doctor discovers it during a routine ultrasound. The main symptom of this condition is bright red vaginal bleeding without any pain during the second half of the pregnancy. The flow could range from being light or heavy accompanied by contractions. Other symptoms may include:
Though the exact cause of placenta previa is unknown, there are certain factors which supposedly increase the risk or trigger this condition. So, you may be more likely to get it if you:
Doctors will decide the treatment plan for your placenta previa depending on the amount of bleeding, the baby’s health status, how advanced the pregnancy is and the position of the placenta & the baby. The bleeding however is the doctor’s main concern. The treatments for different cases are as follows:
Placenta previa is not to be ignored because of the dangers it can pose. If you are going to be a mother, or any loved one is, make sure that there is a lot of care taken. If there is any unusual bleeding at any course during the pregnancy, medical help should be sought immediately. Do not miss routine checks with your obstetrician. Take the requisite screening tests like ultrasound scans as advised by your doctor, help to detect this condition early and plan the treatment strategy for safe delivery.
MBBS(HONS), MD, DGO, FICOG, Senior Obs & Gyn.Laparoscopic and Robotic Surgeon, Consultant Obstetrician, Gynaecologist, Laparoscopic & Robotic Surgeon, Apollo Hospitals, Jubilee Hills, Hyderabad