Placenta previa is a pregnancy complication where the placenta attaches to the lower part of the uterus, partially or completely covering the opening of the cervix. In normal pregnancy, the placenta attaches higher up in the uterine wall. The placenta may appear lower in the uterus early on in the pregnancy, but usually moves up higher in the womb as the pregnancy progresses. In placenta previa patients, the placenta remains in the lower portion of the womb and complicates delivery by blocking the opening of the cervix. Women with placenta previa have certain restrictions placed on their exercise abilities and generally are advised to not run.
Causes
According to MedlinePlus, placenta previa occurs in 1 out of 200 pregnancies. Possible causes include scarring in the lining of the uterus, an abnormally shaped uterus or a large placenta associated with multiple pregnancy. Women who are carrying multiples, are age 35 or older, are smokers or have previously given birth, had a C-section, uterine surgery or abortion are at higher risk of developing placenta previa.
Symptoms
The most common sign of placenta previa is painless, vaginal bleeding that occurs towards the end of the second trimester and beginning of the third trimester. The bleeding can range from light to heavy and may sometimes be accompanied by uterine cramping or contractions. The bleeding often stops on its own, but reappears days or weeks later.
Complications
In some women, placenta previa can cause severe bleeding during labor that can cause maternal shock or even death. Placenta previa can cause placenta accreta -- a condition that occurs when the placenta attaches too deeply into the wall of the uterus and fails to detach from the uterus following delivery. Placenta accreta often requires a hysterectomy to remove the uterus. Placenta previa may also cause premature birth, which is the leading cause of infant death in placenta previa cases according to MedlinePlus.
Treatment
The type of treatment for placenta previa depends upon the severity of bleeding, the position of the baby, the baby's gestational age and to what degree the placenta is covering the cervix. Bed rest is the most common form of treatment for placenta previa to help prevent further complications associated with the condition. Running and other strenuous exercises are prohibited because of the stress it puts on your body and the baby. Bed rest in a hospital is sometimes recommended for placenta previa patients who exhibit more severe symptoms of bleeding.
