A low-lying placenta, also known as placenta praevia, occurs when the placenta is located in the lower part of the uterus, close to or covering the cervix (the entrance to the womb). This positioning can sometimes create challenges in pregnancy and childbirth, as the placenta may obstruct the baby’s path out of the uterus. Here’s a simple breakdown of what it means to have a low-lying placenta, including causes, risks, symptoms and treatments.
1.What Is a Low-Lying Placenta?
The placenta is a vital organ that develops during pregnancy to provide oxygen, nutrients and
immune protection to the baby. It connects to the baby through the umbilical cord and also helps
remove waste from the baby’s blood. The placenta attaches to the upper portion of the uterus in
the majority of pregnancies. However, in some cases, it attaches lower down, which can affect
the pregnancy.
● Low-Lying Placenta: If the placenta is less than 2 cm away from the cervix, it is
considered “low-lying.”
● Placenta Praevia: If the placenta completely covers the cervix, it’s called placenta
praevia.
2.Why Does a Low-Lying Placenta Occur?
The place where the placenta attaches in the uterus depends on where the fertilized egg
implants in the uterine lining. There is no known way to control or prevent the initial placement
of the placenta, but some factors can increase the risk of a low-lying placenta, including:
● Multiple pregnancies (twins or more)
● Previous cesarean sections or surgeries on the uterus
● Smoking during pregnancy
● Use of fertility treatments, such as IVF
3.Common Symptoms of a Low-Lying Placenta
Many people with a low-lying placenta don’t experience symptoms early in pregnancy. However,
some symptoms may appear later, especially in the third trimester. These can include:
● Bright Red Vaginal Bleeding: Often painless, this bleeding may happen after sex or
due to minor uterine contractions.
● Unusual Baby Position: A baby in a breech (bottom-first) or transverse (sideways)
position can sometimes indicate that the placenta is in the lower uterus
4.How Is a Low-Lying Placenta Diagnosed?
Routine ultrasounds, usually between 18 and 21 weeks of pregnancy, can detect the placenta’s
position. If a low-lying placenta is found, another ultrasound is usually scheduled around 32
weeks to see if it has moved up as the uterus expands. In most cases, the placenta naturally
moves upward during pregnancy, away from the cervix and no further action is needed.
5.What Are the Risks of a Low-Lying Placenta?
Most low-lying placentas resolve on their own, but if the placenta remains low, it can pose some
risks:
● Bleeding: Heavy bleeding during pregnancy or childbirth is the main concern, especially
if the placenta blocks the cervix.
● Premature Birth: In some cases, a low-lying placenta can increase the risk of preterm
delivery.
● Caesarean Section: If the placenta is close to or covering the cervix near the time of
delivery, a caesarean section may be recommended to prevent complications.
6.Can You Do Anything to Help the Placenta Move?
The placenta doesn’t move on its own; however, as the uterus grows, it usually shifts upward.
There are no exercises or treatments that can directly affect the placenta’s position. Appropriate
monitoring will be ensured by routine examinations with your physician.
How to Manage a Low-Lying Placenta
If you have a low-lying placenta, your healthcare team will guide you on precautions to reduce
risks, including:
● Avoiding Heavy Lifting: Strain and heavy activity should be limited.
● Modifying Sexual Activity: Some doctors recommend avoiding sex if there’s a risk of
bleeding.
● Preparing for Possible Hospitalization: For those with severe placenta praevia,
hospital stays near the end of pregnancy may be advised to allow rapid medical
response if heavy bleeding occurs
7.What Happens During Delivery?
If the placenta remains low by 36 weeks, a planned caesarean section may be suggested. This
helps avoid complications from the placenta obstructing the birth canal. If bleeding occurs or
there are other risks, your doctor may recommend delivering the baby early
