In plain words
Placenta previa is when the placenta covers or sits very close to the cervix, the opening of the uterus. It is often found on an ultrasound during pregnancy. Many placentas that look low on early scans move up as the uterus grows, so a later scan is often the one that counts. The main sign is bleeding in the second half of pregnancy, often painless and bright red. Call your provider or go to care right away for any bleeding. Placenta previa often means a planned , because a vaginal birth could cause serious bleeding. Your provider will explain your situation and the timing of the next scan.
The deeper version
Placenta previa is defined by placental tissue overlying or reaching the internal cervical os, and the diagnosis is typically made by in the third trimester. Oyelese and Smulian (2006) reviewed the condition, noting that painless bleeding in the late second or third trimester is the classic presentation and that most low-lying placentas at the midtrimester scan resolve. Previa is associated with preterm birth, cesarean delivery, and an elevated risk of , particularly with prior cesarean. Management is individualized, and most previa cases are delivered by cesarean, with timing determined by bleeding and gestational age.
Where it comes up
- Placenta previa and other placenta findingsPregnancy: Your Body
- Planning a cesareanGetting Ready for Birth
- Heavy bleeding after birth (hemorrhage)Birth and the First Days
- Travel during pregnancyPregnancy: Mind and Life
- Sex during pregnancyPregnancy: Your Body
What mothers here say about placenta previa
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Sources
- Oyelese Y, Smulian JC — Placenta previa, placenta accreta, and vasa previa. Obstetrics and Gynecology, 2006