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Is low-lying placenta serious?

Most cases of low-lying placenta resolve on their own as the uterus continues to expand. However, there are risks of developing placental abruption, where the placenta becomes partially or even fully detached from the uterine wall. Depending on the extent of abruption, there may be blood loss that may require hospitalization and a blood transfusion. If the placenta is low-lying during late pregnancy, there may be serious birthing problems as the cervical opening is blocked by the placenta.

FAQ Frequently asked questions

What is a low-lying placenta?

When the placenta attaches to the wall of the uterus during early pregnancy, it may be positioned lower in the uterus. As the uterus expands throughout the pregnancy, the placenta will often move higher up in the uterus, away from the cervical opening. If the …

What are the symptoms of a low-lying placenta?

Many women with a low-lying placenta may not experience any symptoms. If symptoms do occur, these may include vaginal bleeding, which occurs during the second half of pregnancy. Some women may experience symptoms often associated with labor …

What causes a low-lying placenta?

The exact cause of low-lying placenta is not clearly understood, but there are some factors that increase its likelihood.

How is low-lying placenta diagnosed?

Most cases of low-lying placenta are diagnosed during a routine ultrasound in the second trimester of pregnancy.

How is low-lying placenta treated?

The treatment of low-lying placenta may vary depending on the amount of bleeding, stage of pregnancy, health of mother and baby, and position of the baby and placenta. You may be advised to avoid sexual activity or heavy strenuous activity. In case of …

Can low-lying placenta be prevented?

Although the reasons why some women develop a low-lying placenta during their pregnancy are not clearly understood, getting good prenatal care may help identify complications early on. Avoiding known risk factors, such as smoking and cocaine use, may …

Are there different types of low-lying placenta?

There are three main types of low-lying placenta. They are classified by their position in the uterus: 1) Low-lying placenta praevia - the placenta is located close to the cervical opening without covering it. 2) Partial or marginal placenta …

What is the outcome for low-lying placenta?

Most women who are diagnosed with a low-lying placenta early in pregnancy will not develop problems later in the pregnancy, as their placenta will move up higher into the uterus and away from the cervix. Some women whose low-lying placenta …

What increases the chances of developing low-lying placenta?

Although the exact cause of low-lying placenta is not clearly understood, there are some factors that may increase its likelihood, including: smoking; being over the age of 35; a previous pregnancy; being pregnant with more than …

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About this article

Author: Kellie Heywood
First answered: 14 Oct 2014
Last reviewed: 19 May 2018
Rating: 5.0 out of 5
Votes: 1360 (Click smiley face below to rate)
Category: Placental abruption

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