Placenta Previa
Placenta Previa is a serious medical condition that affects pregnant women and their unborn children. During pregnancy, the placenta forms a temporary organ for the baby to receive nutrients and oxygen from the mother’s blood circulation. In Placenta Previa, this placenta implants at the lower end of the uterus and covers part or all of the cervix. This can result in severe bleeding during labor, potentially placing both mother and baby in life threatening situations. Other complications associated with Placenta Previa include preterm birth, preterm rupture of membranes, low birth weight and stillbirth. Women who are at risk for developing Placenta Previa should be monitored more closely throughout their pregnancy so that potential problems can be identified and managed appropriately. Please keep reading for details on the following topics:
Risk factors of placenta previa
Symptoms of placenta previa
Management of placenta previa
RISK FACTORS OF PLACENTA PREVIA
Previous surgery in the uterus
Previous c section
Had more that 5 pregnancies
Older than 35 years old
Used drugs or smoked throughout the pregnancy
SYMPTOMS OF PLACENTA PREVIA
Sudden, painless vaginal passing of bright red blood from the vagina which ranges from light to heavy
It is important to know when to seek urgent medical care, as delaying appropriate treatment can lead to further health complications. If you experience any of the following symptoms, you should seek medical help immediately. If you have any doubts about whether you should seek medical care, it is always better to err on the side of caution and consult with your doctor.
HOW PLACENTA PREVIA IS DIAGNOSED
Ultrasound scan
MANAGEMENT OF PLACENTA PREVIA depends on:
The amount of blood being lost
Whether the mother or baby’s life is at risk
The woman’s gestational age
A pelvic exam can puncture the placenta and lead to heavy bleeding , thus should not be performed
One who does not require hospitalization must:
Be on bedrest
Avoid strenuous activity
Avoid intercourse
Avoid inserting any object into the vagina
Seek urgent medical care whenever bleeding from the vagina is noted
Both mother and baby would be monitored closely
Fetal heart monitoring will be done
A blood transfusion would be given to replace blood lost
Medication will be given to develop the baby’s lungs
If the woman is preterm and contracting, medication will be given to stop the contractions
Whilst on bed rest medication will be given to prevent blood clot
A premature baby will be treated in the neonatal intensive care unit