It is worth noting that a low-lying placenta is not the same as placenta previa, which is a bit serious but manageable with proper medical care. You will be better prepared for it if you know what to expect.
What Does “Low-Lying Placenta” Mean in Simple Words?
A low-lying placenta means that the placenta is located close to your cervix or the lower part of your uterus. The ideal position of the placenta is higher up in the uterus so that the passage for birth is clear.A placenta can be termed as low-lying when it is within 20mm (2cm) of the cervix during mid-pregnancy, which is around 18-20 weeks. However, the placenta moves to a normal position in nearly 80-90% of cases.
However, it is common for the placenta to move upwards as the uterus grows. It moves to a normal position in nearly 80-90% of cases by the third trimester.
In this article:
How Is a Low-Lying Placenta Different From Placenta Previa?
Placenta previa is more serious than a low-lying placenta, which is temporary. The difference is based on how close the placenta is to the cervix or how much of the cervix it covers.- Low-Lying Placenta, in which the placenta is near the cervix but does not cover it.
- Placenta Previa, in which the placenta covers the cervix partially or completely, thereby blocking the way out for the baby. It can cause bleeding and requires a planned C-section in most cases.
Why Does the Placenta Sometimes Implant Too Low?
The position of the placenta depends on the attachment of the fertilised egg in early pregnancy. Several factors can increase its chances of attaching low in the uterus.- Previous C-section
- Multiple pregnancies (twins, triplets)
- Previous uterine surgery
- IVF pregnancies
- Smoking (less common today but still a factor)
What Symptoms Might You Notice With a Low-Lying Placenta?
There are no symptoms of a low-lying placenta, and you may only find out about it during an ultrasound. In rare cases, the following are its symptoms:- Light vaginal spotting
- Occasional bleeding (usually painless)
- Bleeding after intercourse
What Happens if the Placenta Stays Low Later in Pregnancy?
Your doctor will follow your case more closely if your placenta remains low after around 28–32 weeks. There is still a chance that it may move up, but if it does not, your care plan may include the following:- Avoiding strenuous exercise
- Avoiding sexual intercourse
- Extra ultrasound scans
- Watch out for any bleeding
When Is Placenta Previa Diagnosed?
Placenta previa is confirmed only after 32 weeks, when it becomes clear that the placenta is not going to move upward anymore.The following are its common types:
- Marginal previa, in which the placenta touches the cervix
- Partial previa, in which the placenta covers part of the cervix
- Complete previa, in which the placenta fully covers the cervix
What Warning Signs Should Make You See a Doctor Immediately?
- Bright red bleeding
- Bleeding after 20 weeks
- Bleeding with no pain
- Contractions combined with bleeding
- Dizziness or weakness
How Can You Keep Yourself Safe If You Have a Low-Lying Placenta?
- Take plenty of rest, especially if you have spotting.
- Avoid heavy lifting that puts pressure on your abdomen.
- Drink water to maintain good circulation.
- Attend all your ultrasound appointments so your doctor can track placental movement.
- Inform your partner/family so they can support you with household tasks.
- Know emergency signs, particularly bleeding.
- Keep a record of any symptoms, including even mild ones.
What Should You Expect Emotionally During This Time?
Hearing anything unusual about your pregnancy can be overwhelming when you least expect it. You may worry about your baby’s safety or feel stressed about your daily routine if the doctor advises you to rest. In such cases, always prioritise mental well-being.- Talk openly with your partner about fears or concerns
- Ask your doctor every question
- Practice slow breathing or mindfulness to manage stress
- Remember that you can go on to have healthy deliveries with proper care
What To Do Next: Your Quick Checklist?
- Understand your diagnosis, whether it’s low-lying or previa
- Follow activity guidelines provided by your medical team
- Do not ignore any bleeding
- Attend every follow-up ultrasound
- Maintain a supportive environment at home
- Rest whenever your body asks you to
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FAQs on What “Low-Lying Placenta” Actually Means and How It’s Different From Placenta Previa?
- Can a low-lying placenta turn into placenta previa later?
It is mostly uncommon because low-lying placentas move upwards as the uterus grows. The percentage is too small for cases diagnosed as placenta previa. - Can you have a normal delivery with a low-lying placenta?
You can deliver vaginally if the placenta moves away from the cervix in the late pregnancy. Your doctor will confirm this through follow-up scans. - Does a low-lying placenta harm the baby?
Your baby continues to grow normally if you manage symptoms and attend all check-ups.
