Placenta Previa and How it Can Impact Your Pregnancy

Generally occurring during the 2^nd or 3^rd trimester placenta previa is when the placenta attaches to the lower part of the uterus. Bleeding is usually the first indication that placenta previa has occurred.

The placenta is better off attached to the upper portions of the uterus as it's more muscular and offers a stronger support. The lower portion of the uterus tends to be thinner and weaker and cannot withstand the attachment of the placenta as well. During the latter portion of pregnancy, the cervix begins to thin out in preparation for birth and thus parts of the placenta (the blood vessels) can separate and cause bleeding to occur.

Often placenta previa will correct itself before the baby is born. It will begin to move upward as the pregnancy progresses and the uterus stretches. It's not that the placenta actually moves but the growth of the uterus means it is now not as low as before.

If placenta previa does not correct itself there are a few ways to treat and manage this. Bed rest is likely and your care provider will want to see you more often to monitor how the baby is doing. If you start bleeding heavily or have frequent contractions you will probably be hospitalized if it's still too soon for the baby to come. Care for placenta previa also depends on the exact position of the placenta. Complete Previa is when the placenta is completely covering the cervix. This is the most serious case as it is in the way of the birth canal and will disrupt dilation. A cesarean section will be necessary in this case. Partial previa - The placenta covers a portion of the cervix, but does not completely cover the cervix. Marginal previa - The placenta extends to the edge of the cervix but does not cover it.

Women with placenta previa are at an increased risk for hemorrhaging during or after child birth. They will be closely monitored and pitocin may be administered to assist in delivering the placenta. Because of the loss of blood, anemia may occur so hemocrit levels will be checked and an iron supplement may be necessary.

Placenta previa occurs in about 1 out of every 200 pregnancies. Women who are at an increased risk of developing this condition include those who are pregnant with multiples (twin, triplets or more), those who have had a previous pregnancy with placenta previa. Also if it's a subsequent pregnancy you are more likely to have previa as the placenta attaches to a slightly different place in the uterus each time. If it runs out of places, the chances are higher it will attach to the lower portion of the uterine wall. Using drugs or tobacco increases the risk. Also mothers over the age of 35 may be more likely to develop problems with the placenta.

Placenta previa will put you at high risk but many mothers-to-be are able to carry their baby to full term and have healthy babies. It's important to see your health care provider for regular prenatal care and to discuss any symptoms or discomfort you are having.