Placenta Previa

The placenta is the large organ that connect to the baby through the umbilical cord. During pregnancy, it feeds and nourishes your baby and oxygen is also supplied through it. The placenta not only feed and nourishes your baby, but also helps to remove waste and produces HCG, progesterone and estrogen.

Generally in pregnancy the placenta lies high in the uterus next to or above the baby. It grows as your baby grows and will weight over a pound and a half at birth. When the placenta is low in the uterus, covering the cervix, it is referred to as placenta previa. When the placenta is lying low early in pregnancy, another ultrasound may be done later in pregnancy to check it again. Frequently the placenta will have risen into the uterus. Placenta previa and low lying placentas generally don't cause much of a problem unless it actually is touching the cervix and covering part of it.

How is Placenta Previa Diagnosed?
One sign of placenta previa is bleeding in the 2nd trimester or later, generally 34-38 weeks. As delivery nears, the placenta becomes more of an issue and concern. As your cervix thins out, preparing for birth, the placenta can tear loose. Generally an ultrasound is used to diagnose placenta previa as a physical exam will not detect it. If given a pelvic exam, the placenta could further tear and cause more severe bleeding, so they are usually not performed. Sex will be off limits as well. If the placenta covers the cervical opening, a cesarean section will need to be performed.

Generally, no treatment is needed before the 20th week since placenta previa usually correct itself. When diagnosed later, modified bed rest is usually recommended. When bleeding begins, hospitalization is mandatory. Both mother and baby need to be closely monitored for stability, keeping baby inside and developing until at least 36 weeks. If baby or mom shows signs of endangerment, a cesarean will be performed.

As scary as placenta previa may sound, advances in modern medicine have greatly reduced the danger. 99% of placenta previa pregnancies end with both mom and baby doing great!!


Kelly Milano
Co-Owner of FriendsandFamilies.com and mommy to 4.