Placenta previa is a problem that occurs during pregnancy; This organ is the fundamental connection between the baby and the mother, it is also in charge of feeding the fetus through the umbilical cord, and it develops from the same cells that come from the ovum and the sperm. This condition occurs when the placenta grows in the lowest part of the uterus and covers, totally or partially, the cervix, which is the pathway that joins the uterus with the vagina, which could result in heavy bleeding at the time of delivery. Birth. At FastlyHealwe explain the causes, symptoms and treatments of placenta previa.
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Causes of placenta previa
As the uterus grows during pregnancy, the placenta moves to the top; in this way, the cervix will be accessible by the time of delivery. When this happens oppositely, it can cause bleeding and postpartum complications. The causes for which the placenta previa can occur are:
- Smoking or the use of other drugs such as cocaine.
- Women of advanced age.
- Uteri with fibroids .
- In vitro fertilization.
- Scars from cesarean sections.
- Multiple pregnancies .
Types of placenta previa
The placenta previa is not a problem in the first months of pregnancy; however, when delivery is approaching, it is where there may be complications. This disorder can present itself in different ways; below, we explain the types of placenta previa :
- The marginal placenta is when the placenta is on the edge of the cervix but does not cover the opening.
- Partial placenta: covers a part of the cervical opening when the cervix begins to dilate. In this case, vaginal delivery may be an option.
- Placenta total: it is the most severe type and refers to when this organ completely covers the cervical opening. In this case, the delivery will be performed by cesarean section, or it will be induced prematurely.
Symptoms of placenta previa
The symptom of placenta previa is vaginal bleeding from the second trimester of pregnancy. This bleeding can be fatal, and it is possible to diagnose it through an ultrasound between weeks 16 and 20. There is no treatment for the bleeding since there is no way to modify the placenta is located, the bleeding usually stops on its own, but it can reappear weeks later. Regular check-ups will be the key to prolonging the pregnancy and ensuring that the fetus is finished correctly; if this is not possible, a cesarean section will be necessary.
Treatment of placenta previa
In this case, your doctor should assess the risks of bleeding concerning having a premature delivery. In general, women who develop this condition need a cesarean section since vaginal delivery will increase bleeding, which can compromise the life of the mother and the baby. You may need to be hospitalized to monitor both of you.
The treatment of placenta previa may include the following:
- Blood transfusions.
- Medications to prolong pregnancy until week 36.
- Steroid injections help the baby’s lungs mature.
- Medicines to prevent premature labor.
On the other hand, some cautions must be taken into account to avoid premature birth:
- Keep rest.
- Avoid sexual intercourse.
- Reduce activities to the maximum.
Complications of placenta previa
Heavy bleeding is the biggest problem of the placenta previa and can bring the following complications:
- Placenta accreta is when the placenta is implanted so deep that it does not come off quickly during childbirth.
- Premature birth .
- Delayed growth of the fetus.
- Congenital disabilities.
This article is merely informative, at FastlyHeal .com we do not have the power to prescribe medical treatments or make any type of diagnosis. We invite you to see a doctor in the case of presenting any type of condition or discomfort.
If you want to read more articles similar to Placenta previa: causes, symptoms and treatment , we recommend that you enter our Pregnancy and baby health category .
I am a Surgeon with a diploma in comprehensive ultrasound and surgical care residency, an area I am specializing in. During the exercise of my profession, I have realized the need for patients to know the diseases they suffer, and I can tell you that a large part of their complications is due to a lack of information. Being a health web writer allows me to transmit my experience, without borders, to all those readers eager for knowledge, educate them in the prevention of diseases and promote a healthy lifestyle.