In most pregnancies, the placenta is high up on the inside of the uterus (womb). In placenta previa, the placenta is low, towards the cervix (opening of the uterus). A potential problem exists in that the baby cannot pass through the birth canal with the placenta in the way. Also, the placenta can start to separate from the uterus before the baby is born. This happens as the cervix effaces (softens) prior to delivery. The baby needs the blood supplied by the placenta until just after being born. If the placenta comes out first, the baby is without any blood or oxygen. Premature delivery or fetal death are potential complications, as is serious blood loss. Risk factors include previous episode of placenta previa, previous uterine surgery, breech position of baby, age over 35 years, diabetes mellitus, fibroid tumor in the uterus, smoking and previous multiple pregnancies.
Symptoms may include:
Increase or change of type of vaginal discharge, which may include vaginal bleeding.
Sudden and painless bleeding during the 3rd trimester.
What your doctor can do:
The goal is to prevent any complications during the delivery of the baby.
Cesarean delivery is often necessary.
Careful monitoring during prenatal visits is done.
What you can do:
Keep all prenatal appointments with your doctor
If you smoke, stop now
Maintain good control over diabetes or other chronic illness
Contact your doctor if you have any of the warning signs listed above or a history of any of the risk factors.
