المشيمة المنزاحة (Placenta previa)

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Placenta Previa

(Diseases)

On this page, you will find everything you need to know about placenta previa.

What is Placenta Previa?

  • Placenta previa is a condition in which the placenta partially or completely covers the cervix during the later stages of pregnancy. Normally, in the third trimester (weeks 28 to 40), the placenta should move upwards within the uterus.(The placenta is an organ that develops in the uterus during pregnancy and resembles a sac; it supplies the fetus with oxygen and nutrients through the umbilical cord).
  • Types of Placenta Previa:
  • Marginal Placenta Previa: The placenta is located near the edge of the cervix but does not cover it. This type often resolves on its own before delivery.

 

Partial Placenta Previa: The placenta partially covers the cervix.

  • Complete (or Total) Placenta Previa: The placenta fully covers the cervix, obstructing the vaginal canal. This type is less likely to resolve spontaneously.
  • What Are the Symptoms of Placenta Previa?
  • Bright red vaginal bleeding usually begins in the second half of pregnancy.

Mild abdominal cramps or uterine contractions.

The amount of bleeding may vary and is often painless.

  • What Causes Placenta Previa?
  • The exact cause is unknown, but several risk factors may increase the likelihood of developing placenta previa, such as:
  • Smoking.
  • Advanced maternal age.
  • Multiple pregnancies (twins, triplets, etc.).

Prior uterine surgery, including cesarean delivery.

Family history of uterine fibroids.

  • How is Placenta Previa Diagnosed?

The doctor will take a full medical history and perform a physical examination. Additional tests may be ordered as needed, such as:

Ultrasound imaging.

  • How is Placenta Previa Treated?
  • Management depends on the severity of the condition and the health of both mother and baby. It may include:
  • Limiting strenuous activities like running, heavy lifting, and exercise.
  • Bed rest at home.

 

Avoiding sexual intercourse during this time.

More frequent prenatal visits and ultrasound monitoring.

How Can Placenta Previa Be Prevented?

There is no known way to prevent placenta previa. However, certain risk factors can be controlled, such as quitting smoking.

  • What Are the Complications of Placenta Previa?
  • For the mother:
  • Hemorrhage: Severe bleeding may occur during pregnancy, labor, or delivery.
  • Preterm delivery: In cases of heavy bleeding, your healthcare provider may perform an emergency cesarean section before full term (40 weeks).
  • Blood loss: This may lead to anemia, low blood pressure, pale skin, or shortness of breath.

Placenta accreta: The placenta grows too deeply into the uterine wall, potentially causing heavy bleeding after delivery.

  • Placental abruption: The placenta detaches from the uterus before the baby is born, which can reduce the baby’s oxygen and nutrient supply.
  • For the baby:

Preterm birth: Severe maternal bleeding may require early delivery.

Low birth weight: This may lead to difficulty maintaining body temperature or poor weight gain.

  • When Should You See a Doctor?
  • You should go to the emergency room, especially in the second half of pregnancy, if you experience:
  • Vaginal bleeding.
  • Abdominal cramps.

Severe back pain.

Pelvic pain during pregnancy.

Frequently Asked Questions:

 

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