Low Lying Placenta

What is placenta and its function?

The placenta is an organ that connects the growing fetus to the uterine wall. It plays an important role in keeping baby alive and healthy. When my wife was pregnant with our first child, she was diagnosed with low lying placenta. Of course, the result can only be shown through ultrasound scan.

The placenta acts to provide oxygen and nutrients to the growing baby via umbilical cord.  It also helps to protect the growing fetus from infections because it filters the blood from mothers.

What does it mean by low lying placenta?

Low lying placenta, also known as placenta previa, is a common problem during pregnancy.

There are three different forms of placenta previa which is detected through ultrasound scan. Different forms show different degree of seriousness of problem.

When the gynecologist informs you that your placenta lies low, you may want to know the exact form of placenta previa that you suffer from. This would give you a rough idea of what you will need to prepare.

When my wife was diagnosed with low lying placenta, we did not know what to do and were not aware of this at all. The only thing we did is to worry.

Why cesarean delivery (C-section) is needed if condition does not improve?

Gynecologist will tell you that you may need a Cesarean (C-section) delivery if the condition of placenta previa does not improve. This is really necessary. When the placenta lies low, it will cover all or part of the cervix which is the opening to the birth canal. A vaginal delivery is impossible in this case. Vaginal delivery in such case can cause severe bleeding which is very harmful to both the mother and baby.

Will my placenta move up as pregnancy progresses?

In many cases, the placenta will be able to move up gradually as pregnancy progresses.

If the placenta still lies low in the third trimester, you may need to prepare yourself for a cesarean delivery.

Precaution to be taken at home

First and foremost, always follow the instruction from the gynecologist. Usually, the gynecologist will ask you rest more and do not carry heavy objects. In some severe cases, hospital bed rest may be required. For the health of both mother and baby in the long term, expecting mother should slow down the daily activities for a few months.

Exercises should be banned. If placenta previa is detected during early pregnancy, you can still enjoy light exercises like brisk walking. However, if the condition does not improve in second trimester, all kinds of exercises should be disallowed.

Please take note that you should seek gynecologist’s help if you experience any severe cramp or bleeding.

Source: low lying placenta