Placenta Previa

This is a problem in pregnancy in which the placenta grows in the lowest part of the womb and covers all or part of the opening to the cervix. The placenta plays an important role in pregnancy as it provides oxygen and nutrients to your growing baby and removes waste products from your baby's blood. In most pregnancies, the placenta attaches at the top or side of the uterus. In placenta previa, the placenta attaches to the lower area of the uterus.

Most cases of placenta previa are diagnosed at the time of a second-trimester ultrasound examination.

What are the symptoms of placenta previa?

• Painless bright red vaginal bleeding
• Some women experience cramps

Placenta previa occurs in about 1 out of 200 pregnancies and is more common in women who have:

• Abnormally shaped uterus
• Scarring on the lining of the uterus due to the history of surgery, c-section, previous pregnancy or abortion
• Many previous pregnancies
• Multiple pregnancy

Women who smoke or have their children at an older age may also have an increased risk.
Contact your doctor right away if you experience any vaginal bleeding during your second or third trimester!