The placenta is the lifeline between a mother and her baby — it supplies oxygen and nutrients and removes waste.
Normally, it attaches to the upper part of the uterus, well away from the cervix. This is called a normal placenta position, and it allows for a smooth and safe delivery.

But sometimes, the placenta implants lower than expected. These are situations where extra monitoring is essential.

🔹 Low-lying Placenta

• The placenta lies close to the cervix but does not cover it.

• In many cases, as the uterus grows in the 2nd and 3rd trimester, the placenta “moves up” naturally.

• Regular ultrasound follow-up is recommended to check its position.

🔹 Placenta Previa

• The placenta partially or completely covers the cervix (birth canal).

• Typical sign: painless vaginal bleeding in the 2nd or 3rd trimester.

• Vaginal delivery is not safe in most cases.

• A planned Cesarean section is usually required.

🔹 Placenta Accreta Spectrum (PAS)

The placenta grows too deeply into the uterine wall and fails to detach after delivery.

Types:

• Accreta → superficial attachment.

• Increta → invasion into the uterine muscle.

• Percreta → extends through the uterus, sometimes into bladder or other organs.

⚠️ PAS is associated with severe bleeding at delivery and often linked to previous C-sections or uterine surgeries.
It requires multidisciplinary care, blood preparation, and sometimes hysterectomy to save the mother’s life.

💡 Guidelines & Recommendations (ACOG / RCOG)

• Women with low-lying placenta at the mid-pregnancy scan (20 weeks) should have a repeat ultrasound at 32–34 weeks.

• If placenta is still low, a final scan at 36 weeks helps guide delivery planning.

• Any vaginal bleeding in pregnancy must be evaluated urgently.

• Avoid digital vaginal examination in suspected placenta previa — it can trigger life-threatening hemorrhage.

Delivery Planning:

• Stable low-lying placenta → may be observed.

• Placenta previa → schedule C-section at 36–37 weeks.

• Placenta accreta spectrum → deliver in a specialized center with senior obstetric, anesthesia, and surgical teams available.

✨ Practical Tips for Mothers

If you have been diagnosed with low-lying placenta or previa:

🔴 Report immediately if you notice any vaginal bleeding, even if it’s painless.
🛑 Avoid heavy lifting, strenuous exercise, or activities that strain the abdomen.
❤️ Sexual intercourse may need to be avoided if you have bleeding or placenta previa.
🩺 Never skip ultrasounds — they are key to tracking placental changes.
🧾 Always keep your medical file with you in case of emergency visits.

🌟 Key Message

Every pregnancy is unique. Early detection, regular follow-up, and the right delivery plan can make all the difference.

With proper care, both mother and baby can stay safe.
We stand by every mother with knowledge, compassion, and preparation. 💙

📌 Hashtags:

#DrRababCares
#PregnancyAwareness
#PlacentaPrevia
#LowLyingPlacenta
#PlacentaAccreta
#SafeMotherhood
#ForestParkHospital
#MaternalHealth