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Most of the time, it attaches to the upper part of the uterus.

What is placenta previa?

placenta previa delivery

“I had a follow-up scan at 32 weeks, and its 4.5 centimeters from the cervix!!

Was super pleased, but baby is now breech!”

How common is placenta previa?

placenta previa delivery

Placenta previa occurs in about 1 out of every 200 deliveries.

If youre told you have a low-lying placenta or placenta previa before 28 weeks, try not to worry.

Many women are diagnosed with the condition in the second trimester, usuallyduring a routine ultrasound.

placenta previa delivery

Who is most at risk of placenta previa?

The good news is that it wont impact your chances of getting pregnant again.

What are the symptoms of placenta previa?

placenta previa delivery

This may cause bleeding.

The risk of bleeding increases if more of the placenta covers the cervix.

Theres no way to prevent placenta previa, and no surgical or medical procedure can correct the condition.

placenta previa delivery

However many bleeding incidents will resolve before blood loss puts you or your baby at risk.

Managing light bleeding usually includes avoiding activities that can cause bleeding, like exercise and sex.

Youll also want to avoid using tampons.

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Notify your practitioner and head to your labor and delivery unit right away if you experience heavy bleeding.

How is placenta previa treated?

Your doctors goal is to get you as close to your due date as possible.

placenta previa medical illustration

These might include:

Can you deliver naturally with placenta previa?

If the placenta previa resolves and your placenta no longer covers your cervix, its possible to deliver vaginally.

However, in all cases of persistent placenta previa, women will be scheduled todeliver via C-section.

placenta previa medical illustration

If severe bleeding occurs after 36 weeks, your practitioner may recommend an immediate cesarean.

Your doctor will monitor you closely and take precautions to prevent complications.

placenta previa medical illustration

placenta previa medical illustration

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