10 things to know about placenta previa: Causes, symptoms and more

Placenta and its function
The placenta is an organ that forms in the uterus during pregnancy, and aids in providing nutrition to the growing fetus. It also is useful in the exchange of gases, and excretion of waste via the umbilical cord. It is usually located at the top of the uterus, or in the side walls.(Image: Canva)

Definition of placenta previa
When the placenta becomes implanted over the lower uterine segment, either completely or partially, it is known as placenta previa. Almost one third of the people who experience antepartum haemorrhage usually have placenta previa also. In almost 80% of cases, it is seen in women who have had multiple pregnancies.(Image: Canva)

Maternal age and scars
There are multiple factors that increase the risk for the development of placenta previa. Increased maternal age (pregnancy after more than thirty-five years of age), and a history of previous cesarean section, can influence the incidence. Any other scar over the uterus may also increase the chances of placenta previa.(Image: Canva)

Painless vaginal bleeding
The only symptom of placenta previa is vaginal bleeding. This type of bleeding is sudden in onset, painless, and the cause may become difficult to identify. The bleeding may also be recurrent in nature. In a female who has become pregnant for the first time, such bleeding may occur during labour.(Image: Canva)

Timing and nature of bleeding
While the bleeding may be unrelated to any activity, it usually occurs while sleeping, and the affected person may wake up to find a lot of blood. Unless the bleeding occurs concurrently with labour, it is not often associated with pain. Pre-eclampsia may complicate placenta previa.(Image: Canva)

Serious complications possible
If not identified timely, it can lead to antepartum haemorrhage, that can further lead to shock. There may be early rupture of membranes during labour, and the umbilical cord may prolapse due to abnormal attachment of the cord. Intrapartum haemorrhage can also occur.(Image: Canva)

Ultrasound and MRI diagnosis
For confirming the diagnosis, an ultrasonography is recommended. To localise the placenta, a transabdominal ultrasound (TAS) or a transvaginal ultrasound may be advised by the obstetrician and gynaecologist. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) may also aid in diagnosis.(Image: Canva)

Antenatal care and monitoring
Proper antenatal care and antenatal diagnosis are important in the management of placenta previa. A Colour Flow Doppler Ultrasonography may be needed. The blood loss may be assessed by soakage, and the blood pressure and the degree of anemia must also be checked.(Image: Canva)
Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnosis.

Ultrasound and MRI diagnosis For confirming the diagnosis, an ultrasonography is recommended. To localise the placenta, a transabdominal ultrasound (TAS) or a transvaginal ultrasound may be advised by the obstetrician and gynaecologist. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) may also aid in diagnosis.(Image: Canva)

Antenatal care and monitoring Proper antenatal care and antenatal diagnosis are important in the management of placenta previa. A Colour Flow Doppler Ultrasonography may be needed. The blood loss may be assessed by soakage, and the blood pressure and the degree of anemia must also be checked.(Image: Canva) Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnosis.