The placenta typically develops at the top or side of the uterus during pregnancy, but in cases of placenta previa, it attaches low in the uterus. As it forms inside the uterus during pregnancy, the placenta is crucial in supplying oxygen and nutrients to the baby and eliminating waste. It establishes a connection to the baby through the umbilical cord. Placenta previa occurs when some placental tissue covers the cervix, resulting in bleeding during pregnancy, delivery, or postpartum.
Types
- Complete placenta previa: The placenta completely covers the opening of the cervix.
- Partial placenta previa: The placenta partially covers the cervix.
- Marginal placenta previa: The edge of the placenta is at the margin of the cervix.
Symptoms
- Bright red vaginal bleeding, usually painless, is the primary sign of placenta previa after 20 weeks of pregnancy.
- Spotting may precede more significant bleeding episodes.
- Bleeding can also be triggered by sexual intercourse or medical examinations and may not occur until labour, there is no specific event preceding it.
Causes
- The placenta attaches low in the uterus instead of at the top or side.
- Previous cesarean sections may increase the risk.
- Previous placenta previa is a risk factor.
- Multiple pregnancies, such as twins or more.
- Smoking during pregnancy is associated with a higher risk.
Diagnosis
- Ultrasound Imaging
- Transabdominal Ultrasound
- Transvaginal Ultrasound
- Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
Treatment
- It depends on factors such as the condition’s severity, the foetus’s gestational age, and the presence of bleeding. In some cases, bed rest and monitoring are recommended.
- If bleeding is severe or the mother and baby are at risk, hospitalization, and interventions such as blood transfusions or caesarean delivery may be necessary.
- Women with placenta previa are often advised to avoid activities that could trigger bleeding, such as sexual intercourse or heavy lifting.
- The treatment goals are to manage symptoms and complications while ensuring the best possible outcome for both the mother and the baby.
- Placenta previa heightens the likelihood of complications like preterm birth, placental abruption and low birth weight characterized by premature detachment of the placenta from the uterine wall before delivery.
It is a condition where the placenta attaches low in the uterus, partially or completely covering the cervix. It poses risks such as painless vaginal bleeding, especially after 20 weeks of pregnancy, and can lead to complications like preterm birth, low birth weight, and placental abruption. While management strategies vary depending on severity, early detection through ultrasound imaging and timely medical intervention are crucial for ensuring the health and safety of both mother and baby throughout pregnancy and delivery.
