What is Placenta Previa?

Pregnancy is filled with changes, most of which are normal and expected. But sometimes, unexpected conditions arise that require special attention. One such condition is called Placenta Previa — a term that might sound complicated but is important for expectant mothers to understand.

In this blog, we’ll take you through everything you need to know about Placenta Previa: what it is, why it happens, how it affects pregnancy, and what to expect if you’re diagnosed with it.

Understanding the Basics: What Is Placenta Previa?

The placenta is a vital organ that forms during pregnancy. It provides oxygen and nutrients to your baby and removes waste products from the baby’s blood. Normally, the placenta attaches to the upper wall of the uterus, away from the cervix (the opening to the birth canal).

Placenta Previa occurs when the placenta partially or completely covers the cervix, either early or later in pregnancy. This can cause complications during delivery and often requires careful monitoring.

Types of Placenta Previa

There are three main types of Placenta Previa, based on how much of the cervix is covered:

1. Complete (Total) Previa: The placenta completely covers the cervix.
   
   

2. Partial Previa: The placenta partially covers the cervix.
   
   

3. Marginal Previa: The placenta reaches the edge of the cervix but doesn’t cover it.
   
   

Symptoms to Watch Out For

The most common and noticeable symptom of Placenta Previa is:

• Painless vaginal bleeding, typically in the second or third trimester
  
  

Other possible signs include:

• Bleeding after intercourse
  
  

• Contractions or uterine cramping
  
  

• Bleeding that starts and stops
  
  

It’s important to note that not all women experience symptoms, which is why regular ultrasounds during pregnancy are crucial.

What Causes Placenta Previa?

The exact cause isn’t always known, but several factors can increase the risk:

• Previous C-section delivery
  
  

• Prior placenta Previa
  
  

• Carrying multiple babies (twins, triplets)
  
  

• Uterine surgeries (like fibroid removal)
  
  

• Smoking or using drugs during pregnancy
  
  

• Being 35 or older during pregnancy
  
  

Sometimes, Placenta Previa occurs with no identifiable risk factors at all.

How Is It Diagnosed?

Placenta Previa is typically detected during a routine ultrasound. If it’s found early in pregnancy, there’s a good chance the placenta will move upward as the uterus grows — a process called placental migration.

However, if it remains low-lying later into pregnancy (after 20–24 weeks), more detailed ultrasounds and monitoring may be needed.

Is It Dangerous?

Placenta Previa can lead to serious complications if not managed properly, such as:

• Severe bleeding (hemorrhage) during pregnancy or labor
  
  

• Preterm birth
  
  

• Placental abruption (separation of the placenta from the uterus)
  
  

• Risk during vaginal delivery due to blocked cervix
  
  

Because of these risks, many women with placenta Previa are advised to avoid strenuous activities, abstain from intercourse, and may even require hospital bed rest in later stages.

Treatment and Delivery Options

There’s no medication to cure Placenta Previa, but it can be safely managed through careful planning and medical care. The treatment plan depends on:

• The extent of the cervix coverage
  
  

• The amount of bleeding
  
  

• The baby’s gestational age
  
  

If there’s minimal bleeding and the placenta is only marginally low:

• You may be advised to rest more and attend frequent checkups.
  
  

• The doctor may allow the pregnancy to progress naturally until full term.
  
  

If there’s severe bleeding or a complete Previa:

• A planned C-section is usually scheduled at around 37 weeks.
  
  

• Emergency C-section may be necessary if heavy bleeding occurs earlier.
  
  

Can the Placenta Move?

Yes — in many cases diagnosed early, the placenta gradually shifts upward as the uterus expands. This happens in about 90% of cases diagnosed before 20 weeks. That’s why follow-up ultrasounds are important throughout the second and third trimesters.

Living with Placenta Previa

While the diagnosis may sound scary, it’s manageable with the right care. Here’s what you can do if you’ve been diagnosed:

• Attend all prenatal appointments
  
  

• Follow your doctor’s advice about activity restrictions
  
  

• Know the signs of heavy bleeding and go to the hospital immediately if they appear
  
  

• Stay calm — many women go on to have healthy pregnancies and deliveries, even with placenta Previa