When a pregnant woman’s placenta attaches to the inside of the uterus in an abnormal position i.e, near the lower edge or over the cervical os from where the baby is born, the condition is called Placenta Previa. This condition can cause severe painless bleeding during pregnancy and childbirth.
Why is this caused?
The complete causes of Placenta Previa are unknown. The common reasons are:
- Smoking
- Previous Cesarean
- History of previous abortion followed by D and C
Symptoms:
The most common symptoms are:
- Early Pregnancy Bleeding
- Painless Bleeding in the third trimester of pregnancy
How is Placenta Previa diagnosed?
Detailed history, USG, and MRI in some cases
Possible conditions that may be causing the same symptoms:
Cervical Polyp, Trauma, Abruptio Placentae (Detachment of the Placenta)
How is Placenta Previa treated?
If bleeding occurs in early pregnancy – Bed Rest, Avoiding Sexual Intercourse and Corticosteroids for baby lung maturity, 36 weeks of close monitoring and delivery through a cesarean section can treat Placenta Previa
Placenta Previa may lead to:
- Birth of a preterm baby
- Growth retardation in the baby
- Heavy maternal bleeding needing a blood transfusion
- Removal of the uterus after delivery
In some cases, Placenta Previa can occur without any prior risk factor. To avoid complications, early diagnosis and institutional delivery are mandatory.
Upcoming modalities for dealing with this condition:
MRI in case of previous cesarean delivery
If you experience painless bleeding during the early stages or in the trimester of your pregnancy, consult your doctor at Zoi Hospitals right away.
