Placenta Previa: What You Need to Know

Placenta Previa: What You Need to Know

Placenta previa is a dangerous complication during pregnancy that can cause severe bleeding in the mother and affect the health of the fetus.

1. Symptoms and Diagnosis

• Typical Symptoms: Bright red vaginal bleeding, which may be profuse and life-threatening for the pregnant woman. Blood usually does not clot.

• Diagnostic Methods: Ultrasound is the most accurate and safe method for diagnosing placenta previa.

• Postpartum Diagnosis: Examining and observing the placental membrane is an accurate method for retrospectively diagnosing placenta previa.

2. Causes and Risk Factors

• Cause: The placenta attaches to the lower segment of the uterus instead of the body of the uterus.

• Risk Factors:

• Advanced maternal age

• Multiparity

• History of multiple abortions

• Large fetus

• Uterine abnormalities

3. Classification of Placenta Previa

• Central Placenta Previa: The placenta completely covers the cervical opening.

• Partial Placenta Previa: The placenta partially covers the cervical opening.

• Marginal Placenta Previa: The edge of the placenta is close to the cervical opening.

• Low-Lying Placenta: The placenta is located low near the cervical opening.

4. Management of Placenta Previa

• Management before labor: Rest, reduction of uterine contractions, close monitoring of bleeding and fetal condition. Referral to a higher level of care if there is heavy bleeding.

• Management during labor:

• Central placenta previa: Cesarean delivery.

• Partial, marginal, and low-lying placenta previa: Amniotomy, vaginal delivery if there is no bleeding. Cesarean delivery if bleeding persists.

• Intensive resuscitation of mother and fetus is necessary.

• The newborn baby needs special care.

5. Prevention of Placenta Previa

• Practice family planning.

• Manage pregnancy well.

• Maintain good menstrual hygiene and prenatal hygiene.

Note: Placenta previa is a dangerous complication that requires timely monitoring and treatment by a specialist.

Additional Information:

• The incidence of placenta previa in pregnancy is approximately 1 in 200.

• The fetal mortality rate in placenta previa is around 10-20%.

• Placenta previa may be completely asymptomatic and only detected incidentally by ultrasound.

Advice:

It is essential to have regular prenatal checkups and follow your doctor’s instructions to detect and treat complications during pregnancy early, including placenta previa.