In this article:
What is Retained Placental tissue?
During childbirth, the placenta develops in your uterus. It’s like a temporary tissue that supplies oxygen and food to the foetus and gets rid of waste through the umbilical cord. Usually, after delivery, your uterus contracts to release the placenta.A retained placenta occurs when some portion of it gets trapped in the womb. This may sound trivial, but even the slightest part of the remaining tissue won’t let your uterus contract normally, which will lead to infection and bleeding.
Why Does Placental Tissue Sometimes Remain Inside?
There are multiple reasons behind it:- If, after delivery, your uterus doesn't contract strongly, it may fail topush out the entire placenta
- In some instances, placenta accreta occurs, where theplacenta is intensely attached to the uterine wall
- If your cervix closes immediately, without giving time for the placenta to release, pieces can get left behind
- A difficult labour, taking too much time, could disrupt the process and prevent the placenta from releasing spontaneously
- Past C-sections or other surgeries leave scars that may complicate the detachment of the placenta
How Do You Know if This Happens?
Usually, doctors check the placenta right after birth to make sure it’s all out. But sometimes a bit of tissue stays behind, and you won’t know until you encounter symptoms.Typical signs are:
- Vaginal discharge that smells bad
- You often feel feverish or have chills
- You’re dizzy, tired or weak most of the time
- You encounter excessive or persistent bleeding after delivery
- You suffer from continuous pain or cramps in your lower abdomen
What Are the Probable Complications?
- You may encounter too much blood loss or postpartum haemorrhage after delivery. This is a major problem for new mothers everywhere.
- When the remaining tissue gets infected, it can lead to pain, illness, or fever
- Your uterus takes longer than usual to shrink back to its normal size
- Sometimes, retained tissues can cause wounds that make future conception problematic
How to Identify a Retained Placental Tissue?
- To check for the leftover placenta inside your uterus, your medical examiner might perform an ultrasound
- They may perform physical examinations to verify the size and sensitivity of the uterus
- To monitor blood loss or infection, they might also run blood tests
What Are the Treatment Options?
Treatment depends on the amount of tissue left and your body’s response. Some usual ways are:- In case the placenta fails to come out naturally, the physician might take it out manually
- Drugs that make your uterus contract can, at times, push out the leftover tissues
- A procedure called a D&C (dilation and curettage) carefully removes any tissue that’s still there
- If there is an infection, antibiotics can prevent it from spreading
Can You Prevent a Retained Placenta?
You can’t stop the risk completely, but here’s how to lower it:- Drink enough water and rest well so your uterus can heal
- Make sure that after delivery, your doctor examines the placenta
- Tell your doctor if you had any difficulties with the placenta in a prior pregnancy
- Take care of yourself after giving birth and go to all your check-ups
When Should You See a Doctor?
You should seek immediate medical attention if:- You feel dizzy or faint
- You get sharp or prolonged abdominal pain
- You heavily bleed, so much so, that your pad soaks within an hour
- If there is a foul smell in your vaginal discharge, or you have chills or fever
How to Stay Safe?
- Never miss any check-ups after delivery
- Keep track of any abnormal signs, including excessive blood loss
- Don't ignore prolonged fever or pain
- Take some rest, hydrate yourself, and stay nourished to promote healing
- Tell your partner or family about how you’re feeling. Dealing with your emotions is just as vital as physical healing.
Social & Emotional Factors
If things don’t go as expected during your recovery, it’s absolutely fine to feel anxious or afraid. Keep in mind that having this condition doesn't mean it’s your fault. Getting the right treatment can help you heal completely and focus on your newborn. Trust your family, partner, or friends for emotional support, and clear all your doubts with your surgeon.Retained placental tissue after delivery isn't a common scenario, but it's important to understand and recognise it. With early intervention and attention, it is treatable, and you’ll recover, allowing you to enjoy the time you spend with your newborn.
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FAQs on Why Some Women Retain Placental Tissue After Birth
- How quickly do indications of retained placenta appear?
Depending on the amount of tissue remaining and the reaction of your body to the same, you may experience the symptoms a few hours, days, or even weeks after childbirth. - Can a retained placenta come out naturally?
In some instances, the small pieces can be delivered through the natural birth process. Nevertheless, in most cases, medical assistance is required to prevent excessive bleeding and infection. - Can a retained placenta hamper conceptions in the future?
It doesn't hamper any future pregnancies if treated right. However, the untreated ones may lead to scarring that may cause problems in future.