Placenta Previa

What is Placenta Previa?

The placenta is an organ that develops during pregnancy inside of the uterus, and provides oxygen and nutrients to and removes waste products from your baby. The placenta is connected to your baby through the umbilical cord. In most pregnancies, the placenta is attached at the side or the top of the uterus. It sits low during early pregnancy and moves up toward the top of the womb by the third trimester.

Placenta previa is a condition that occurs when a baby’s placenta grows into the wall of the uterus, causing total or partial coverage of the mother’s cervix (the opening of the birth canal). This can result in severe vaginal bleeding during pregnancy and delivery, which poses a risk to both the mother and fetus.

There are two main types of placenta previa: complete previa and marginal previa. With complete or total placenta previa, the placenta covers the whole opening of the cervix. With marginal previa, the placenta covers a part of the cervix. For women diagnosed with this condition early in their pregnancies, the placenta previa may resolve. However, if it is diagnosed later in pregnancy or the placenta covers the entire cervix, it is less likely to improve on its own.

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Common symptoms of placenta previa include:

• Painless bleeding during the second half of your pregnancy, which can range from light to heavy.
• Contractions along with bleeding.
• Anemia, pale skin, or low blood pressure due to blood loss.

What Causes Placenta Previa?

Placenta previa occurs in about one out of every 200 births. While the exact cause is not known, these are common risk factors for placenta previa:

• Those who have experienced a previous pregnancy
• Women who have had placenta previa previously
• Have an abnormally shaped uterus or scars on their uterus from previous surgery
• Are 35 years or older
• Are carrying more than one baby
• Smoke

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Benefits of Placenta Previa Treatment

• Limit severe bleeding during pregnancy
• Reduced risk of postpartum hemorrhage
• A greater chance of a successful childbirth
• Manages maternal and fetal health

Qualifications for Placenta Previa Treatment

If you have the following symptoms and they are not alleviated with rest, you may qualify for placenta previa treatment:

• Painless vaginal bleeding during the second half of your pregnancy, which can range from light to heavy.
• Contractions along with bleeding.
• Anemia, pale skin, or low blood pressure due to blood loss.

Preparing for Placenta Previa Treatment

Dr. Tepper may recommend that patients reduce physical activity, avoid intercourse, and minimize stress on the cervix to decrease the risk of serious bleeding. Hospital admission may be recommended for close observation if bleeding occurs. Blood tests and intravenous access preparations are typically done in case transfusions are needed. If an early cesarean is planned, corticosteroids might be administered to enhance fetal lung maturity.

Placenta previa is diagnosed through ultrasound, usually a combination of abdominal ultrasound and transvaginal ultrasound. If diagnosed, you may require additional ultrasounds to check the location of your placenta during pregnancy.

How is Placenta Previa Treated?

While it can be difficult to prevent placenta previa, and there is no cure, there are ways to manage the bleeding caused by this condition. Overall, treatment for placenta previa depends on how much bleeding you are experiencing, gestational age, or how far along your pregnancy is, your and your baby’s health, and the position of the placenta and baby. The goal of treatment is to limit and control bleeding.

For women experiencing minimal bleeding, Dr. Tepper may recommend rest, while those with heavy bleeding may require medical attention and a planned C-section. In cases where bleeding is very severe and cannot be stopped, an emergency C-section may be required. Vaginal delivery is not recommended since there is an increased risk of hemorrhage or placental abruption. We understand that pregnancy complications can be scary and stressful, and Dr. Tepper will provide you with the professional care necessary to safeguard the health of both you and your baby.

Post Placenta Previa Care

After delivery, women are monitored for bleeding and complications. Recovery care involves pain management, wound monitoring, and breastfeeding support. Dr. Tepper may recommend blood transfusions, medicines that cause the uterus to contract, and uterine massages. Long-term follow-up may be important in cases of complicated placenta previa or surgical interventions. Patients who have had a C-section are encouraged to avoid heavy lifting and rest for several weeks at home.

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Learn More About Placenta Previa

Dr. Alex Tepper is an expert in maternal-fetal medicine who is committed to patient safety and compassionate care. If you have been experiencing excess bleeding or other irregularities during your pregnancy, we encourage you to schedule an appointment today at our office in New York, NY.

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Whether you are a new or returning patient, Dr. Tepper can assess your concerns and discuss your options to find the most comfortable and convenient care for you. To get started, call our office to set up an appointment.

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