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 providing oxygen and nutrients while removing the excreted products. 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 birth canal at the time of delivery.
Unfortunately, this condition can't be seen in early pregnancy. Routine ultrasound scans can diagnose it only during and after the second trimester of pregnancy. While it might cause 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:
Remember that placenta previa can not be identified through just these signs. This is one reason 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 proximity to the cervix. A second trimester 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 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, certain factors can increase the risks.
Previous surgeries and reproductive procedures might cause placental problems in some cases. 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 deliveries 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 during pregnancy, your doctor will monitor it'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 placenta's position with your doctor's help.
There is no need to be more cautious about every move or to be bedridden unless there are other risks. To minimise the risk, avoid heavy lifting, running too fast, and putting stress on your abdomen. Sleep comfortably and take proper rest when you need it.
Although placenta previa management can be 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 would be best to stay connected with your doctor to monitor your placenta's position regularly.
Best Formula Milk | Baby Girl Names | Rash Free Diapers | Best Ovulation Kits | Lactation Powders | Pant Style Diapers | Top Baby Names | Baby Girl Milestones | Sunscreen for babies | Best Pregnancy Kits | Safe Baby Powders | Baby Soaps for Sensitive Skin | Breast Pumps for Moms | Yoga for Constipation in Pregnancy
Pregnancy Week by Week
Week 1 | Week 2 | Week 3 | Week 4 | Week 5 | Week 6 | Week 7 | Week 8 | Week 9 | Week 10 | Week 11 | Week 12 | Week 13 | Week 14 | Week 15 | Week 16 | Week 17 | Week 18 | Week 19 | Week 20 | Week 21 | Week 22 | Week 23 | Week 24 | Week 25 | Week 26 | Week 27 | Week 28 | Week 29 | Week 30 | Week 31 | Week 32 | Week 33 | Week 34 | Week 35 | Week 36 | Week 37 | Week 38 | Week 39 | Week 40 |
Pregnancy Month on Month
Month 1 | Month 2 | Month 3 | Month 4 | Month 5 | Month 6 | Month 7 | Month 8 | Month 9 |
Infant Development by Month
1 Month Baby | 2 Month Baby | 3 Month Baby | 4 Month Baby | 5 Month Baby | 6 Month Baby | 7 Month Baby | 8 Month Baby | 9 Month Baby | 10 Month Baby | 11 Month Baby | 12 Month Baby
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 baby delivery.
A: There are four types of placenta previa: marginal, partial, complete, and low-lying. The severity depends on how much the cervix is covered with the placenta.
A: Yes. In many cases, the low-lying placenta can move upwards 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 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.
