Placenta Previa
Placenta previa is a condition in which the placenta is attached close to or covering the cervix (opening of the uterus). Placenta previa occurs in about one in every 200 live births.- Types of Placenta Previa
- What causes it?
- Why is it dangerous?
- What are the symptoms of Placenta Previa?
- How is it diagnosed?
- How is it treated?
Bleeding During Pregnancy - Causes of bleeding during pregnancy
Total Placenta Previa
With Total Placenta Previa, the placenta totally covers the cervix.
Partial Placenta Previa
With Partial Placenta Previa, the placenta partially covers the cervix.
Marginal Placenta Previa
With Marginal Placenta Previa, the placenta is near the edge of the cervix.
What causes Placenta Previa?
The exact cause of placenta previa is unknown, but it is associated with certain conditions including the following:- Women who have scarring of the uterine wall from previous pregnancies
- Women who have fibroids or other abnormalities of the uterus
- Women who have had previous uterine surgeries or cesarean deliveries
- Older mothers (over age 35)
- African-American or other minority race mothers
- Cigarette smoking
- Placenta previa in a previous pregnancy
Why is Placenta Previa dangerous?
The greatest risk of placenta previa is bleeding (or hemorrhage). Bleeding often occurs as the lower part of the uterus thins during the third trimester of pregnancy in preparation for labor. This causes the area of the placenta over the cervix to bleed. The more of the placenta that covers the cervical os, the greater the risk for bleeding. Other risks include the following:- Abnormal implantation of the placenta
- Slowed fetal growth
- Preterm birth
- Birth defects
- Infection after delivery
What are the symptoms of Placenta Previa?
The most common symptom of placenta previa is vaginal bleeding that is bright red and not associated with abdominal tenderness or pain, especially in the third trimester of pregnancy.However, each woman may exhibit different symptoms of the condition or symptoms may resemble other conditions or medical problems. Always consult your physician for a diagnosis.
How is Placenta Previa diagnosed?
In addition to a complete medical history and physical examination, an ultrasound may be used to diagnose placenta previa. An ultrasound can show the location of the placenta and how much is covering the cervix. A vaginal ultrasound may be more accurate in diagnosis.Although ultrasound may show a low-lying placenta in early pregnancy, only a few women will develop true placenta previa. It is common for the placenta to move upwards and away from the cervix as the uterus grows, called placental migration
How is Placenta Previa treated?
Specific treatment for placenta previa will be determined by your physician based on:- Your pregnancy, overall health, and medical history
- The extent of the condition
- Your tolerance for specific medications, procedures, or therapies
- Expectations for the course of the condition
- Your opinion or preference
Bleeding During Pregnancy - Causes of bleeding during pregnancy
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