What is Placenta Previa? Causes, Symptoms and Treatment Methods

Placenta previa is the condition in which the placenta settles in the lower part of the uterus and partially or completely blocks the birth canal. During normal pregnancy, the placenta is located in the upper part of the uterus and provides the baby with the necessary oxygen and nutrients. However, in the case of placenta previa, the placenta settles in the lower part of the uterus and can cause an obstacle to vaginal birth. This condition can pose a risk for both the mother and the baby, so it is an issue that should be carefully considered during birth planning.

 

What is Placenta Previa?

Placenta previa is a condition in which the placenta settles in the lower part of the uterus and partially or completely blocks the birth canal. This condition can prevent the baby from being born vaginally during birth and therefore may require a cesarean section. The placenta blocking the cervix can cause serious bleeding during birth. Placenta previa is usually diagnosed after the 20th week as the pregnancy progresses and should be followed up with regular doctor check-ups throughout the pregnancy.

Basic Features of Placenta Previa:

• Placenta Settling in the Lower Part: Placenta settling under the uterus and blocking the birth canal.
• Birth Canal Blockage: A condition that prevents vaginal delivery during labor.
• Bleeding Risk: It can cause serious bleeding during or before labor.

Placenta previa is an important condition that should be diagnosed early during pregnancy.

What Causes Placenta Previa?

Although the exact cause of placenta previa is unknown, some risk factors may trigger this condition. Placenta implantation in the lower part of the uterus is usually due to previous damage to the uterine tissue or previous surgeries.

Placenta Previa Risk Factors:

• Previous Cesarean Sections: Previous Cesarean Sections can leave scars in the uterine tissue, increasing the likelihood of the placenta implanting in the lower part of the uterus.
• Age: The risk of placenta previa is higher in women over the age of 35.
• Multiple Pregnancies: The risk of placenta previa increases in multiple pregnancies such as twins or triplets.
• Previous Uterine Surgeries: Myomectomy or other uterine surgeries may cause the placenta to implant in the lower part of the uterus.

These factors may increase the likelihood of developing placenta previa and should be carefully monitored during pregnancy.

What Are the Symptoms of Placenta Previa?

The most common symptom of placenta previa is painless vaginal bleeding. This bleeding usually occurs in the second or third trimester of pregnancy. The bleeding often begins suddenly and without pain. However, the symptoms of this condition may not always be clear and may require an ultrasound diagnosis.

Placenta Previa Symptoms:

• Vaginal Bleeding: Usually painless, bright red vaginal bleeding.
• Abdominal and Back Pain: In some cases, mild abdominal pain or lower back pain may occur.
• Early Contractions: Sometimes uterine contractions and symptoms similar to labor pains may be seen.

These symptoms may indicate placenta previa and require urgent medical attention.

Types of Placenta Previa

Placenta previa is divided into different types according to the location of the placenta in the uterus. This classification is important for treatment planning and determining the method of delivery.

Types of Placenta Previa:

1. Complete Previa: The placenta completely covers the cervix, making vaginal delivery impossible.
2. Partial Previa: The placenta covers part of the cervix.
3. Marginal Previa: The placenta is located on the edge of the cervix, but does not completely cover the birth canal.

Each type of placenta previa may require different approaches in birth planning.

How is Placenta Previa Diagnosed?

Placenta previa is usually diagnosed during routine ultrasound scans. A morphological ultrasound performed at 20 weeks of pregnancy shows the location of the placenta and can determine if placenta previa is present. Advanced imaging techniques can also be used to clarify the diagnosis.

Placenta Previa Diagnostic Methods:

• Transvaginal Ultrasound: It is the imaging method that most accurately shows the location of the placenta and its relationship with the cervix.
• MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging): It can be used to see the exact location of the placenta when necessary.

Early diagnosis is critical for the management of placenta previa.

How is Placenta Previa Treated?

The treatment of placenta previa varies depending on the location of the placenta in the uterus, the severity of bleeding, and the week of pregnancy. In cases of early-diagnosed placenta previa, bed rest under the supervision of a doctor may be recommended. In more advanced stages, a cesarean section may be required.

Placenta Previa Treatment Methods:

1. Bed Rest: If the bleeding is mild and in early pregnancy, bed rest is recommended.
2. Hospital Observation: In cases where the bleeding is severe, the patient is hospitalized and kept under observation.
3. Cesarean Section: The vast majority of pregnancies with placenta previa are terminated by cesarean section. This is necessary for the safety of both the mother and the baby.

The treatment is shaped according to the doctor's recommendations and should be followed continuously until birth.

Placenta Previa Risk Factors

There are many factors that increase the risk of developing placenta previa. These factors can cause the placenta to settle in a different position than normal in the uterus.

Placenta Previa Risk Factors:

• Previous Cesarean Delivery: Having a previous cesarean delivery increases the risk of placenta previa.
• Advanced Age: The risk is higher in pregnant women who are 35 years of age or older.
• Multiple Pregnancies: The risk of placenta previa is higher in women who are pregnant with twins or more babies.
• Hysterectomy: Women who have had previous uterine surgery are at higher risk of developing placenta previa.

Pregnant women with these risk factors should be monitored more carefully in terms of placenta previa.

Birth Planning After Placenta Previa

In pregnant women diagnosed with placenta previa, birth planning should be done meticulously. Normal birth may not be possible and cesarean birth may become necessary. The time of birth is determined according to the location of the placenta and the progress of pregnancy.

Placenta Previa Birth Planning:

• Cesarean Birth: In the case of placenta previa, birth planning is usually done on cesarean section. This method is preferred to minimize the risk of bleeding.
• Delivery Timing: In cases of placenta previa, a cesarean section is usually planned for the 36th-37th weeks. However, in cases where there is a risk of premature birth, this period may be brought forward earlier.

Birth planning should be done carefully by the doctor and all risks should be considered.

Placenta Previa and the Need for a Cesarean Section

In cases of placenta previa, the risk of vaginal birth is very high and is generally not recommended. This situation makes it mandatory to prefer cesarean section.

Why is Cesarean Section Recommended?

• Bleeding Risk: Placenta previa can cause serious bleeding during delivery.
• Baby Health: The baby's exit can be blocked during vaginal delivery, which may require an emergency cesarean section.

In the case of placenta previa, cesarean section is considered the safest delivery method for the safety of both the mother and the baby.

Recommendations for Mothers Living with Placenta Previa

There are some important points that expectant mothers diagnosed with placenta previa should pay attention to during pregnancy. This may require some restrictions and lifestyle changes during pregnancy.

Recommendations:

• Rest: Bed rest is very important in cases of placenta previa. Physical activities should be limited in line with the doctor's recommendations.
• Regular Doctor's Check-ups: The placement and development of the placenta should be constantly monitored.
• Avoiding Sexual Intercourse: Sexual intercourse is not recommended for pregnant women diagnosed with placenta previa.

Following these recommendations is important for a healthy pregnancy in the case of placenta previa.

Placenta Previa Complications

Placenta previa can lead to serious complications in some casesir. If left unchecked, especially in later stages of pregnancy, it can pose risks for both the mother and the baby.

Possible Complications:

• Serious Vaginal Bleeding: Placenta previa can cause serious bleeding before or during birth.
• Premature Birth: The baby may have to be born early due to intense bleeding.
• Placental Abruption: Premature separation of the placenta can cause the baby to be deprived of oxygen.

These complications should be monitored carefully and doctor check-ups should not be skipped throughout the pregnancy.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. How common is placenta previa?

Placenta previa occurs in approximately 0.5-1% of pregnancies.

2. Does placenta previa allow for vaginal delivery?

In the case of placenta previa, vaginal delivery is usually not possible and a cesarean section is recommended.

3. Does placenta previa lead to premature delivery?

Yes, placenta previa can increase the risk of premature delivery.

4. Can placenta previa be prevented?

Placenta previa cannot be completely prevented, but a healthy lifestyle can be followed to reduce risk factors.

5. Can women with placenta previa get pregnant again?

Yes, women with placenta previa can get pregnant again, but it can happen again in the next pregnancy.