Placenta Previa: Is it dangerous?
Pregnancy and childbirth is a wonderful journey. Right after the baby is conceived and the mother takes care of the baby in the womb, there are a lot of changes that will happen to a mother’s body to facilitate the growth of the baby.
Changes in the mood, changes in the physical appearance especially if there is a growing baby inside the womb, and changes in the hormones will likely happen during the pregnancy.
The placenta plays a big part during pregnancy because the placenta is the one responsible for the supply of nutrients and oxygen to your baby. The placenta will be attached to your uterus all throughout your pregnancy and will later be detached once your baby is out. Naturally when you are pregnant and your baby is growing the placenta will move upward to give way for the delivery of the baby.
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Although this is how things work for a lot of women, if the placenta continues to stay at the bottom of the woman’s uterus blocking the passageway of delivery this will lead to placenta previa or low lying placenta.
How can a woman determine if she has placenta previa?
During the 20th week of pregnancy the doctor will order for a scan to check or to determine the placement of the placenta. Aside from the scan there are a lot of signs and symptoms that women should look out for such as, bleeding, intense cramps, bleeding during or after intercourse. You should call your doctor right away if you experience such signs and symptoms.
Who is at risk of placenta previa?
- Multiple pregnancies (twins, triplets, etc)
- Any surgery that is related to uterus, Cesarean Section delivery
- Smoking
- Drinking alcohol
- Pregnancy beyond 35-40
- Already had placenta previa in the past
What to do if you are diagnosed with placenta previa?
- If you are in your first trimester and the doctor will test if it will position itself then a pregnant mother will be advised to rest.
- If you are experiencing bleeding you may need to bed rest however if it is heavy bleeding contact your doctor and go to the hospital right away.
- Avoid strenuous activities.
The health of your baby to be delivered will be a great factor. If you are having a distressed baby you might be delivering via C-section. Being physically, mentally prepared is a must, especially C-section will be a safer plan to deliver the baby.
