Placenta Previa: Symptoms, Causes, Complications & Treatment Options

• The placenta responsible for delivery of oxygen and nutrients to your growing fetus
• Placenta previa is a pregnancy complications causing serious health concerns
• If placenta previa is not treated timely, you may require a C-section delivery

The placenta is a structure that connects to your baby through the umbilical cord. It provides oxygen and nutrition to your baby throughout the pregnancy. The placenta usually attaches to the top or side of the uterus.

Placenta previa is a pregnancy complication in which the placenta, partially or totally, covers the outlet of the uterus, that is, your cervix.

Placenta previa symptoms primarily include bright red vaginal bleeding during the second half of pregnancy. While most women do not experience any type of pain, others feel some contractions in the placenta previa.

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There are three placenta previa types:

• Complete placenta previa
• Partial placenta previa
• Marginal placenta previa

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Placenta previa causes are not yet known exactly. This condition can affect any pregnant woman. However, it is more common in certain women than in others.

Placenta previa risk factors include:

• History of pregnancy and delivery
• Scarring on the uterus from previous surgeries
• History of placenta previa is previous pregnancy
• Multiple pregnancies (what to expect during multiple births)
• Advanced age (older than 35 years)
• Smoking or tobacco consumption

Placenta previa is a complex and serious health condition. Upon detection, your obstetrician will provide a personalised plan to manage this condition.

If left untreated, it can lead to serious health problems. Common placenta previa complications include:

• Severe vaginal bleeding
• Preterm delivery

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Placenta previa is usually diagnosed during your routine prenatal visit or upon the display of symptoms such as vaginal bleeding. Your obstetrician will perform an ultrasound to help detect this condition and offer corrective treatment.

Placenta previa treatment protocol includes the management of vaginal bleeding (bleeding during pregnancy). Your healthcare provider will aim to manage the amount of bleeding based on the stage of pregnancy, your overall health, your baby’s health and the position of the placenta. 

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