The journey of pregnancy can be both heart-thumping and beautiful, but sometimes, it takes an unexpected turn.
One such turn is when the baby’s ‘lifeline’, the placenta, settles too low in the womb and ends up blocking the baby’s way out.
While it may sound worrying, this condition, known medically as placenta previa, can be managed safely with the right care and attention.
Dr Kartik Balaraman, Consultant Obstetrician & Gynaecologist at Columbia Asia Hospital, Bukit Jalil, breaks down everything you need to know about placenta previa from what it is and why it matters, to who’s more at risk and how it’s detected.
Understanding Placenta Previa
Placenta previa is a condition during pregnancy where the placenta lies too low in the uterus, either partly or completely covering the opening of the cervix (the passage the baby uses to come out during birth).
Since the placenta provides oxygen and nutrients to the baby, its position matters, especially when it blocks the baby’s way out.
How Common Is Placenta Previa?
Placenta previa affects about 1 in 200 pregnancies.
It’s more common earlier in pregnancy but often corrects itself as the uterus grows. Certain women are more at risk, such as:
- women who have had previous C-sections or uterine surgery
- women carrying twins or multiples
- women who smoke or are over the age of 35
- women who have had placenta previa before
- women with a history of multiple pregnancies
What Causes Placenta Previa?
Placenta previa is not caused by something the mother did.
It happens when the placenta attaches low in the uterus.
Everyday activities like light exercise, lifting, or sex do not cause the condition.
That said, once diagnosed, doctors may advise avoiding intercourse or strenuous activity to prevent bleeding.
Key Warning Signs of Placenta Previa
The most common sign is painless vaginal bleeding, especially in the second or third trimester.
There may be no cramping or discomfort, just unexpected bleeding.
If you notice any vaginal bleeding during pregnancy, do not ignore it; seek medical attention immediately, and avoid intercourse until advised by a doctor.
Even if the bleeding stops, it’s important to get checked right away.
Detecting Placenta Previa Through Ultrasound
Yes, placenta previa is often detected during a routine ultrasound scan (usually around 18–20 weeks).
At this stage, many women may be told their placenta is low-lying, but in most cases, it moves upward as the uterus expands.
A follow-up scan is usually scheduled later in pregnancy (around 28 weeks) to see if the placenta has moved into a safer position.
What Could Go Wrong: Risks for Mother and Baby
Potential complications include heavy bleeding (hemorrhage), which can be dangerous for both mother and baby.
Other complications are preterm birth if early delivery is needed in the event of excessive bleeding or a condition that compromises the mother and baby, and the need for blood transfusions or emergency delivery.
The good news is that in most cases diagnosed early, the placenta moves away from the cervix as the uterus grows, and the condition resolves on its own.
Normally, this is more common in minor placenta previa, whereby the placenta is located at the edge of the cervix or partially covers the cervical opening.
How Placenta Previa Is Treated
Treatment depends on the severity and timing of the condition.
If there is no bleeding and the placenta is only slightly covering the cervix, your doctor may recommend avoiding strenuous activity, intercourse, and travel.
If there is bleeding, you may require hospital observation, bed rest, or medications to prevent early labor.
In severe cases, or if the bleeding is heavy or persistent, hospitalization until delivery may be necessary.
Does Placenta Previa Always Mean a C-Section?
Yes, in most cases where the placenta is still covering the cervix in late pregnancy, a C-section (Caesarean delivery) is recommended.
However, if the placenta has moved and is at a safe distance from the cervix, a normal vaginal delivery may still be possible. Your doctor will decide based on:
- placenta position in late pregnancy
- severity and timing of any bleeding
- baby’s growth and position
- your previous birth history
Myth or Medicine: Do Massages Really ‘Push Up’ the Placenta?
There is no medical evidence that traditional massages can move the placenta.
In fact, such practices can be dangerous, especially if they involve pressure on the abdomen.
Doctors strongly advise against any attempt to manually “push up” the placenta as this can cause more bleeding or harm the baby.
Always speak to your healthcare provider before trying any traditional or alternative treatments during pregnancy.
Post-Delivery Recovery and Planning for the Next Pregnancy
Recovery depends on how the delivery went.
If a C-section was done, healing will take a bit longer – typically around 6 to 8 weeks, with rest and wound care.
Most women go on to have healthy pregnancies in the future.
However, if you’ve had placenta previa once, there’s a higher chance it may happen again, especially if you’ve had multiple C-sections.
Your doctor will monitor more closely in your next pregnancy.
Your Health, Your Baby, Your Peace of Mind
While placenta previa can seem worrying, today’s medical advancements allow most mothers and babies to thrive with timely care and proper management.
Awareness, early diagnosis, and close monitoring are key to ensuring a safe delivery.
If you or someone you love is expecting, remember: no question is too small when it comes to your health and your baby’s wellbeing.
Always reach out to your healthcare provider if you have any concerns because when it comes to pregnancy, being informed is one of the best gifts you can give yourself and your little one.
Source: Dr Kartik Balaraman, Consultant Obstetrician & Gynecologist at Columbia Asia Hospital, Bukit Jalil
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as medical advice from Motherhood. For any health-related concerns, it is advisable to consult with a qualified healthcare professional or medical practitioner.
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