Placenta Previa is a condition during pregnancy in which the placenta grows over part or all of your cervix. Placenta previa occurs in 1 out of 200 pregnancies, reports Medline Plus. It is more common in women who have had a previous C-section, multiple pregnancy, or have uterine scarring or an abnormally developed uterus. Smoking also increases the risk of placenta previa.
Hemorrhage
When the cervix starts to open in preparation for labor, the placenta is detached, which can trigger severe vaginal bleeding, states Mayo Clinic. The primary symptom of placenta previa is sudden, painless vaginal bleeding. This bleeding may occur toward the end of the second trimester or in the beginning of the third trimester. This bleeding can stop or start again within days or weeks. If you lose too much blood, you may need additional iron supplementation. In severe cases you may require a blood transfusion. If you are pregnant and experience vaginal bleeding at anytime throughout your pregnancy, contact your obstetrician immediately.
Premature Labor
If you have lost a lot of blood, you may be placed in the hospital for close monitoring. The goal of hospitalization is to prolong the pregnancy for as long as possible. This can be achieved by bed-rest and medications to prevent or stop labor. In some cases, the baby needs to be delivered early. Premature labor is birth prior to 37 weeks gestation. If born premature, your baby may need extra care in the neonatal intensive care unit in the hospital.
Surgical Delivery
Many patients with placenta previa end up needing a surgical delivery (c-section). A c-section poses additional dangers such as hemorrhage, infection and blood clots. Additional healing time and post surgical pain may make it more difficult for you to care for your new baby.
Placenta Accreta
If the placenta implants too deeply and firmly into the uterine wall, the placenta may not spontaneously detach from the uterus after delivery --- an uncommon condition known as placenta accreta, states Mayo Clinic. In severe cases, this can lead to hemorrhage and possible surgical hysterectomy (removal of the uterus).
