Placenta Previa Care Needs: A Comprehensive Guide for Expectant Mothers
Worried about placenta previa? Understand its symptoms, risks, and essential care tips to ensure a healthy pregnancy. Learn how to manage this condition effectively.
Written by Dr. Sonia Bhatt
Last updated on 5th Jun, 2025
Introduction
Placenta previa is a pregnancy complication that occurs when the placenta attaches low in the uterus and covers the cervix. Ensuring the health of both the mother and baby requires careful monitoring and specialised care. The placenta, which provides essential nutrients and oxygen to the growing baby, can sometimes position itself in a way that causes complications. Understanding the care needs of placenta previa is crucial for pregnant women, especially those diagnosed with this condition.
What is Placenta Previa?
Placenta previa occurs when the placenta lies low in the uterus, partially or entirely covering the cervix. The cervix is the opening of the uterus, which needs to remain clear for labour and delivery. When the placenta blocks this opening, it can lead to bleeding, premature labour, and complications during delivery.
Throughout pregnancy, the placenta naturally grows and shifts as the uterus expands. In most cases, a low-lying placenta in early pregnancy moves upward by the third trimester, making way for a smooth delivery. However, in placenta previa, the placenta remains in a lower position, obstructing the baby’s exit and increasing the risk of complications.
Placenta previa is typically diagnosed through an ultrasound in the second trimester of pregnancy. There are three types of placenta previa, classified based on how much of the cervix is covered by the placenta:
Minor placenta previa: The placenta partially covers the cervix.
Complete placenta previa: The placenta completely covers the cervix.
Marginal placenta previa: The placenta is positioned at the edge of the cervix but does not obstruct the opening.
The condition often leads to complications in pregnancy, like bleeding, which is why timely diagnosis and appropriate care are critical.
Signs and Symptoms of Placenta Previa
Placenta previa often doesn’t present noticeable symptoms early in pregnancy. However, vaginal bleeding is the most common symptom of placenta previa, specifically during the second and third trimesters. This bleeding is typically painless and can range from light spotting to heavy bleeding.
Other symptoms may include abdominal discomfort or a feeling of pressure, preterm contractions or early labour symptoms and premature rupture of membranes, which can occur when the water breaks early
If you experience vaginal bleeding or discomfort during pregnancy, it is essential to seek medical attention immediately. Even if the bleeding is light, it can be a sign of placenta previa and may require specific care.
Risks and Complications
Placenta previa can usually be managed effectively, but there are several risks associated with it. These risks include:
Heavy Bleeding: Placenta previa can lead to significant bleeding, especially during the second or third trimester. This bleeding can result in anaemia, and in severe cases, it may require blood transfusions.
Preterm Labour: Early contractions or rupture of membranes due to placenta previa can lead to premature birth. Premature babies may face health challenges as their organs, such as the lungs, may not fully develop.
Placental Abruption: In some cases, the placenta may separate from the uterine wall before delivery, leading to more bleeding and the risk of miscarriage or stillbirth.
C-Section Delivery: Placenta previa often makes it a must to have a cesarean section (C-section) delivery. This is because the placenta blocks the cervix, making vaginal birth dangerous for both the mother and baby.
Care and Management of Placenta Previa
If you’ve been diagnosed with placenta previa, it is important to follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and attend regular check-ups. Here are some essential care needs and strategies for managing placenta previa:
1. Regular Monitoring
Regular monitoring is one of the key elements of managing placenta previa. This typically involves:
Frequent ultrasounds: To monitor the position of the placenta and ensure it is not obstructing the cervix.
Blood tests: To check for anaemia caused by any bleeding and monitor overall health.
Foetal heart rate monitoring: To assess the baby's health, mainly if there has been any bleeding.
Your healthcare provider may advise additional tests or imaging techniques to evaluate the situation thoroughly.
2. Activity and Bed Rest
In cases of moderate to severe placenta previa, your doctor may recommend reducing your physical activity to minimise the risk of bleeding. This could involve:
Resting more and limiting activities such as lifting heavy objects, exercising, or standing for long periods.
Bed rest: In some cases, your doctor may advise partial or complete bed rest to reduce the risk of bleeding and preterm contractions. While studies on the effectiveness of bed rest for placenta previa are still debated, many healthcare providers will suggest it as a precautionary measure.
Listening to your doctor’s advice and adjusting your lifestyle is essential.
3. Avoiding Sexual Intercourse
If you have placenta previa, sexual intercourse may be restricted to avoid triggering bleeding. Your healthcare provider will provide guidelines on when and how to resume sexual activity, depending on the progression of your pregnancy and the severity of the condition.
4. Preparing for Delivery
As placenta previa often requires a C-section, it is important to prepare for this type of delivery well in advance. Your healthcare provider will help you plan the best time for a C-section based on the progression of your pregnancy and the condition of your placenta. The C-section will typically be scheduled before labour begins to prevent the risks associated with vaginal delivery in cases of placenta previa.
Pre-surgical tests: You may undergo routine tests before the C-section, such as blood tests, an anaesthesia assessment, and a discussion about pain management options during the surgery.
Birth plan: Discuss your birth plan with your doctor. You can express your preferences for the day of the C-section, including who will be present and any specific details that are important to you.
5. Psychological and Emotional Support
Pregnancy complications, including placenta previa, can cause emotional stress and anxiety. It is important to recognise these feelings and seek support when needed. Consider the following:
Talking to a mental health professional: If you are feeling overwhelmed, speaking to a therapist or counsellor can help.
Support groups: Connecting with other women who have experienced placenta previa can offer a sense of community and support.
6. Postpartum Care
After the delivery, the mother will need careful monitoring, particularly if there are complications during the pregnancy, such as bleeding. Your healthcare provider will ensure that you are healing properly and check for any signs of infection or complications from the C-section.
The baby may also require extra care if born prematurely or if any complications arise during delivery. Premature babies may require time in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) to ensure they are healthy and stable.
Conclusion
Placenta previa is a serious condition that requires thoughtful management and careful monitoring throughout pregnancy. The good news is that the risks can be minimised with the right care, and both mother and baby can have a positive outcome. If diagnosed with placenta previa, it is important to follow your healthcare provider’s advice. Understanding your condition will empower you to make informed decisions and reduce any anxiety during this challenging time.
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