Learn essential steps to manage a low-lying placenta during the second trimester for a healthy pregnancy journey.
Dr. Priyanka Surisetty
Undoubtedly, pregnancy is an exciting journey for mothers, but sometimes there is a chance of unexpected situations like low-lying placenta or placenta previa. It feels tough if you are diagnosed with such a condition, but rest assured, with regular monitoring, checkups, and proper precautions, you can still have a healthy pregnancy.
This article will explain everything about a low-lying placenta and how to manage it during the second trimester.
We know the placenta is a lifeline to the baby as it provides oxygen and nutrients while removing unnecessary waste. A normal placenta should be placed higher up in the uterus, away from the cervix. However, in some cases, it can get positioned lower and cause trouble during labour. If the placenta implants itself in the lower part of the uterus, this condition is called a low-lying placenta or placenta previa. Sometimes, such a placenta covers the cervix and blocks the baby's exit at the time of delivery.
Unfortunately, this condition can't be seen in early pregnancy. It can be diagnosed only during and after the second trimester through routine ultrasound scans. While it might be a cause for alarm, you don't need to worry too much - especially when diagnosed early.
Usually, a low-lying placenta does not show any symptoms, especially in early pregnancy. But there are some signs you need to be aware of:
Having said that, remember that placenta previa can not be identified through just these signs. This is one of the reasons why regular ultrasound checkups are important during the second trimester. With timely diagnosis and monitoring, the chances of a healthy delivery are much higher.
In the case of a low-lying placenta, you will observe unusual vaginal bleeding during the second trimester at around the 20th week of pregnancy. Unlike the typical spotting in the early stages of pregnancy, this causes noticeable bleeding. In such cases, it is better to consult a doctor immediately. Sometimes, the bleeding will stop on its own. Even if the bleeding stops, it is crucial to get checked thoroughly.
As mentioned earlier, the only way to confirm a low-lying placenta is through regular ultrasound scans. These scans allow your doctor to see the placenta's position and how close it is to the cervix. A transabdominal ultrasound, where the probe is placed on the belly, can evaluate the position of the placenta.
In some cases, a transvaginal ultrasound, where the probe is inserted into the vagina can evaluate the placenta's position. However, this kind of ultrasound is recommended only for a more precise view. Once placenta previa has been diagnosed, your doctor will schedule regular scans to monitor the changes in the placenta's position.
While any woman can experience a low-lying placenta during pregnancy, there are certain things which can increase the risks. Knowing these factors and discussing them with your doctor can help you get the best possible care for your baby. They are as follows.
In some cases, previous surgeries and reproductive procedures might also cause placental problems. Let's look more closely into it.
Uterine surgeries are one of the most significant causes of a low-lying placenta. Women who have had C-section surgeries before, or any other surgical procedures like fibroid removal, or uterus surgeries are more likely to experience placenta previa.
On the other hand, women who conceive through in-vitro fertilisation (IVF) are also at higher risk of placental problems. If you have a history of such surgeries earlier, it is better to inform your doctor so they can monitor your placenta more precisely.
If you are diagnosed with a low-lying placenta in pregnancy, your doctor will monitor the placenta's position regularly. You will be suggested additional ultrasounds, especially during weeks 28 and 32 to check whether the placenta moves upwards as the uterus expands.
If you are approaching the due date, yet the placenta is still on the lower side, there is a possibility of a planned C-section to ensure your and your baby's safety. This extra monitoring can be overwhelming, but it is crucial for the baby's safety. Always be in touch with your doctor and keep monitoring the placenta's position for the safe delivery of your baby.
If you are diagnosed with this condition in the second trimester, there is no need to panic or to change your lifestyle drastically. The good news is that you can follow your daily routine with the right adjustments while minimising the risk of placenta previa. However, you need to follow up on your checkups regularly and keep monitoring the position of the placenta with the help of your doctor.
If you are diagnosed with a lower placenta, there is no need to be more cautious about every move or to be bedridden unless there are other risks. Avoid heavy lifting, running too fast, and putting stress on your abdomen to minimise the risk. Sleep comfortably, and take proper rest when you need it.
Although placenta previa management can be a little stressful, there is nothing to panic about. The key to managing the lower placenta is to avoid straining your abdominal area, and uterus. Here are some general precautions to follow:
Being diagnosed with a low-lying placenta can make you feel stressed, but with the right adjustments, care, and precautions, you can have a healthy pregnancy and normal delivery. If the condition is diagnosed early and monitored correctly, there is nothing to worry about. It is advisable to stay connected with your doctor for regular monitoring of your placenta's position.
FAQs
A: There is a possibility. As the pregnancy progresses, the placenta on the lower side can move upwards. With close monitoring and taking proper precautions, many women have successful pregnancies even with placenta previa.
A: Low-lying placenta can lead to complications like heavy vaginal bleeding or preterm labour. But, with the right precautions, and close monitoring by a doctor, you can have a healthy pregnancy and safe delivery of your baby.
A: There are four types of placenta previa: marginal, partial, complete, and low-lying placenta. The level of severity depends on how much of the cervix is covered with the placenta.
A: Yes. In many cases, the low-lying placenta can move upwards by itself without causing any complications. However, you need to follow your doctor's advice and keep up the monitoring.
A: Not necessarily. By the time you reach your third trimester, the placenta may move upwards on its own as the pregnancy progresses. In some cases, if the position of the placenta has not changed, or covers the cervix completely, then there is a scope of c-section.
