The placenta:
- Delivers oxygen and nutrients to your baby
- Removes waste from the baby’s blood
- Produces pregnancy hormones
- Acts as a barrier to some infections
Placenta Previa
Imagine your placenta deciding to settle a little too close to the exit; that’s placenta previa. In this condition, the placenta lies low in the uterus and may partially or fully block the cervix (the opening your baby passes during birth).What to look out for:
- Painless vaginal bleeding, especially in the third trimester
- No pain, but bleeding that starts and stops
- Diagnosed during a routine ultrasound
Why it matters:
- May lead to heavy bleeding (which can be dangerous for both you and baby)
- Can cause premature birth
- Might need a C-section for delivery
Who’s at higher risk?
- Those over age 35
- If you've had a C-section or uterine surgery before
- If you’re carrying twins or multiples
- If you smoke
Placental Abruption
Your placenta is supposed to stay attached to your uterus until after birth. If it separates too early, that’s called placental abruption.This can look like:
- Vaginal bleeding (sometimes it’s hidden)
- Sudden abdominal pain
- A feeling of tightness or tenderness in your belly
- Baby’s movements suddenly slowing down
- Back pain or rapid contractions
This one’s urgent. If your placenta detaches even slightly, your baby might not be getting enough oxygen. It can lead to:
- Fetal distress
- Premature delivery
- Stillbirth in severe cases
You’re at greater risk if:
- You’ve had a prior abruption
- You have high blood pressure or preeclampsia
- You’ve had trauma (like a fall or accident)
- You smoke or use drugs
- You’re carrying more than one baby
Placenta Accreta, Increta & Percreta
Most of the time, the placenta sticks to the mom’s tummy and comes out by itself when the baby is born. But sometimes, it sticks too hard and doesn’t come out like it should. That’s called:- Accreta: the placenta attaches too deeply
- Increta: placenta can sometimes grow into the muscle part of the uterus.
- Percreta: placenta grows through the uterus and may reach nearby organs (like the bladder)
What this means for you:
- Often diagnosed through ultrasound or MRI
- Higher chance of needing a planned C-section
- May require a hysterectomy (removal of the uterus) after delivery to control bleeding
Risk factors include:
- Previous C-sections
- Placenta previa
- Prior uterine surgeries
Placental Insufficiency
Placental insufficiency is when the placenta can’t deliver enough oxygen or nutrients to your baby, which might cause some problems like:- The baby is growing too slowly (foetal growth restriction)
- Low birth weight
- Premature delivery
- Low blood sugar or body temperature in a baby
- Stillbirth in rare cases
It might not have obvious symptoms, but some clues include:
- Baby's movements feel weaker or slow down
- Belly is not growing as expected
- High blood pressure or preeclampsia
- Smaller fundal height (your bump measures smaller than it should)
Anterior Placenta
If your placenta is sitting in the front of your uterus (anterior), it might feel like your baby’s kicks are a bit cushioned. It can also make it trickier for your doctor to hear the baby’s heartbeat or for you to feel movements early on.Sometimes, it’s linked with placenta previa, but usually, it’s nothing to worry about unless you’re also experiencing other symptoms.
The placenta plays a vital role during pregnancy, supporting your baby’s growth and development. But sometimes, complications like placenta previa, abruption, accreta, or insufficiency can occur, posing risks to both parent and baby. Recognising symptoms like vaginal bleeding or abdominal pain early is crucial. With regular check-ups, proper monitoring, and timely medical care, these complications can often be managed safely. Trust your instincts, stay informed, and seek support when needed.
FAQs on Placental Complications You Shouldn't Ignore During Pregnancy
- Can I still have a healthy baby if I have placenta previa or abruption?
Yes, with the right care and timely monitoring, many people go on to have healthy deliveries. Early detection makes a big difference. - Is a C-section necessary if I have a placental complication?
It depends. Conditions like complete placenta previa or placenta accreta often require planned C-sections. Your healthcare provider will discuss the safest approach based on your diagnosis. - Are placental complications my fault?
Absolutely not. These conditions are not caused by anything you did or didn’t do. They can happen even in the healthiest of pregnancies. - Can placental insufficiency be treated?
There’s no cure for it, but your doctor can monitor the baby closely and make decisions about when and how to deliver safely. - Is it safe to request an ultrasound if I feel something is wrong?
Yes. You are your baby’s best advocate. If you feel something isn’t right, speak up and ask for reassurance or an additional check-up.
