Most of the time, the placenta is attached high within the uterine cavity. At times, the placenta may be attached too low in the uterus and covers the cervix. In the later stages of pregnancy anatomical changes in the cervix occur that can damage or loosen the placenta from its attachment. This can lead to bleeding. This condition can be fatal to the unborn child and mother, if untreated. It occurs in about 0.5% of pregnancies that go to full term. It is more common in older mothers, mothers that have undergone previous cesarean section and in women that have had multiple children.
Causes of Placenta Previa
The cervix is the passage out of the uterus. Normally, the placenta attaches high on the uterine wall, away from the cervix. In placenta previa, the placenta assumes the abnormal position lower on the uterus and partially or completely covers the cervical opening. When the Uterus prepares for labor and delivery, some anatomical changes occur. This can cause the placenta to become detached in the vicinity of the cervix. this separation can lead to bleeding. It can lead to inadequate exchange between the mother and the fetus.
Signs and Symptoms of Placenta Previa
The most common symptom of Placenta previa is painless vaginal bleeding that occurs most commonly during the last third of pregnancy. The bleeding may begin moderately and become severe. It may produce abdominal or pelvic cramping. It the bleeding is severe it can result in anemia with shortness of breath, rapid heart rate, pallor and exercise intolerance.
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Medical Content Last Updated on 07/12/2008
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