Understanding the Placenta
- The placenta develops during pregnancy and supplies the baby with oxygen and nutrients.
- It also removes waste products from the baby’s blood.
- After childbirth, the placenta is no longer required and should detach from the womb naturally.
- This stage is known as the third stage of labour.
Types of Retained Placenta
There are three main types you should know:Placenta Adherens
- The most common type
- The placenta fails to contract away from the womb due to weak uterine contractions.
- The placenta detaches from the womb but gets stuck behind a partly closed cervix.
- A rare but serious condition
- The placenta grows too deeply into the wall of the womb and cannot detach easily.
Signs of a Retained Placenta
If the placenta does not come out within the expected time, you may notice:- Continuous heavy bleeding after childbirth
- Severe abdominal cramps or pain
- Foul-smelling vaginal discharge
- A feeling of pressure or fullness in the womb
- Signs of shock, like dizziness, sweating, or rapid heartbeat
Why a Retained Placenta is Risky
If not removed, a retained placenta can lead to complications:- Postpartum Haemorrhage (PPH): Severe blood loss that can be life-threatening if not treated quickly.
- Infection: Retained tissue may lead to a uterine infection, causing fever, chills, and discomfort.
- Scar Tissue Formation: In some cases, scar tissue can develop in the womb, affecting future fertility.
- Shock: Rapid blood loss can lead to shock, necessitating urgent medical attention.
Causes of Retained Placenta
Several factors increase the risk:- Giving birth before 34 weeks (preterm delivery)
- Prolonged labour or speedy labour
- Previous history of retained placenta
- Stillbirth
- The placenta is attaching abnormally deeply into the wall of the womb.
How Retained Placenta is Diagnosed
Doctors or midwives carefully monitor the third stage of labour. They check:- How long does it take for the placenta to pass
- Amount of blood loss
- Whether the placenta appears complete once delivered
Treatment Options
If the placenta does not come out naturally, different steps may be taken:Manual Removal
- A trained doctor gently removes the placenta by hand.
- This is usually done under anaesthesia to ensure comfort.
- Medicines may be given to help the womb contract and expel the placenta.
- In rare cases, surgery may be needed to remove placental tissue.
- This is more common in cases of placenta accreta.
Preventive Care During Pregnancy
While not always preventable, you can take some steps to reduce risk:- Regular antenatal check-ups
- Informing doctors about previous childbirth experiences
- Early detection of placenta-related complications through ultrasound
- Ensuring delivery in a hospital or centre with emergency facilities
What You Should Do
If you or someone close has recently delivered a baby, remember:- Do not ignore heavy bleeding or severe pain after delivery.
- Always ensure the placenta is checked for completeness.
- Seek immediate medical care if symptoms of retained placenta appear.
Recovery After Retained Placenta
With timely treatment, recovery is usually smooth. You may need:- Rest and proper hydration
- Antibiotics are used if an infection is present
- Iron-rich foods or supplements if blood loss was significant
- Emotional support, as the experience can be stressful
Why Timely Care Matters in India
In India, postpartum haemorrhage remains a leading cause of maternal deaths. Retained placenta is a major reason. Quick hospital care, provided by skilled staff and backed by emergency support, saves lives.Key Takeaways
- The placenta must be expelled within 30 minutes of childbirth.
- A retained placenta can lead to heavy bleeding, infection, or complications if ignored.
- Immediate medical care, whether through medication, manual removal, or surgery, is necessary.
- Recovery is possible with proper treatment and support.
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FAQs on Placenta Retention After Childbirth: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment in Detail
- Can a retained placenta pass on its own after many hours?
Sometimes, small fragments pass naturally, but waiting is not safe. If not expelled within 30 minutes, medical assistance is required. - Does a retained placenta always require surgery?
No, not always. Manual removal of medicines is usually effective. Surgery is required only in rare cases, especially when the placenta is abnormally attached. - Can a retained placenta affect future pregnancies?
If treated quickly, most people recover fully without complications. However, in cases of placenta accreta or scarring, future pregnancies may need closer monitoring. - Is a retained placenta common in India?
While not extremely common, a retained placenta is a known cause of postpartum haemorrhage in India. Awareness and access to timely care are crucial for preventing risks. - How long does recovery take after treatment?
Recovery typically takes a few weeks, although the duration varies. Rest, proper nutrition, and follow-up visits all play a crucial role in the healing process.
