ConditionandTreatments

Overview

Placenta praevia is a pregnancy complication where the placenta implants low in the uterus, covering part or all of the cervix. This condition can cause severe bleeding before or during delivery and poses significant risks to both the mother and the baby. At Yatharth Hospital, our team of specialists provides expert care for diagnosing, managing, and treating placenta praevia, ensuring the best possible outcomes for our patients.

Signs and Symptoms

The primary symptom of placenta praevia is painless vaginal bleeding in the second or third trimester. Other symptoms may include:

• Bleeding: Bright red vaginal bleeding, which may be severe and often starts in the second half of pregnancy without pain.
• Preterm Labor: Signs of labor before 37 weeks of pregnancy.
• Abdominal Pain: In rare cases, some women may experience cramps or contractions.

Diagnosis

Diagnosing placenta praevia involves a combination of medical history, physical examination, and diagnostic tests. Your gynecologist may use the following methods:

Ultrasound

The primary tool for diagnosing placenta praevia. Transabdominal and transvaginal ultrasounds help determine the placenta’s position and the extent to which it covers the cervix.

Pelvic Examination

Typically avoided if placenta praevia is suspected due to the risk of provoking bleeding.

MRI

In some cases, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) may be used to get a more detailed view of the placenta’s location.

A similar condition in which vaginal bleeding occurs is Placental Abruption, where the placenta detaches from the uterus.

Differential Diagnosis

Placental Abruption

The placenta detaches from the uterus, usually associated with a history of trauma or hypertension.

Placenta Accreta

The placenta grows too deeply into the wall of the uterus, usually associated with a history of uterine surgery.

Treatment

Treatment for placenta praevia at Yatharth Hospital is tailored to the severity of the condition, the amount of bleeding, the stage of pregnancy, and the health of the mother and baby. Our comprehensive approach includes medical management and surgical options when necessary.

Depends on:

• Severity of Bleeding
• Gestational Age
• Position of the Placenta and Baby
• Maternal and Fetal Clinical Conditions

Medical Management

• Bed Rest: Minimizing physical activity to reduce the risk of bleeding.
• Monitoring: Regular ultrasounds and fetal monitoring to assess the baby’s development and the placenta’s position.
• Medication:
  • Corticosteroids: To accelerate the baby's lung maturity if an early delivery is anticipated.
  • Tocolytics: To prevent premature labor.
  • Blood Transfusion: If you experience heavy bleeding.

Surgical Treatment

• Cesarean Delivery: In most cases, a planned cesarean section (C-section) is necessary to deliver the baby safely. The timing of the C-section is crucial and depends on the severity of the bleeding and the baby’s maturity.
• Emergency C-Section: If severe bleeding occurs or the mother's or baby's health is at risk, an emergency C-section may be required regardless of gestational age.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What causes placenta praevia?

The exact cause of placenta praevia is unknown. Risk factors include previous placenta praevia, multiple pregnancies, advanced maternal age, previous uterine surgery, and smoking.

How is placenta praevia diagnosed?

Placenta praevia is primarily diagnosed through ultrasound imaging. Transabdominal and transvaginal ultrasounds help determine the location and extent of the placenta's coverage over the cervix.

Can placenta praevia resolve on its own?

In some cases, as the uterus grows, the placenta may move away from the cervix, resolving the condition. Regular monitoring with ultrasounds is essential to track its position.

What are the risks associated with placenta praevia?

Risks include severe bleeding (hemorrhage), preterm birth, placenta accreta (where the placenta attaches too deeply into the uterine wall), and complications during delivery.

How is placenta praevia treated?

Treatment depends on the severity of the condition and includes bed rest, monitoring, medication to mature the baby's lungs, and often a planned cesarean delivery to ensure the safety of both mother and baby.

Is normal delivery possible with placenta praevia?

Normal vaginal delivery is typically not possible with placenta praevia due to the risk of severe bleeding. A cesarean section is the preferred and safer method of delivery.

What should I do if I experience bleeding during pregnancy?

If you experience any vaginal bleeding during pregnancy, seek immediate medical attention. Prompt evaluation and treatment are crucial to managing placenta praevia and ensuring the safety of both mother and baby.

Conclusion

Placenta praevia is a serious condition that requires prompt medical attention and specialized care. At Yatharth Hospital, our team of experts is committed to providing comprehensive and compassionate care for women experiencing placenta praevia. For more information or to schedule an appointment, please contact our Obstetrics and Gynecology Department. Your health and the health of your baby are our top priorities.