What should you know?
Placenta previa means the placenta partly or completely covers the internal cervical opening. A low-lying placenta is nearby without necessarily covering it, and its relative position often changes as the uterus grows.
The classic symptom is painless bright bleeding later in pregnancy, although the diagnosis may be incidental. Ultrasound establishes placental location; unplanned digital vaginal examination can be dangerous when previa is suspected.
Common symptoms and signs
- Painless bright-red bleeding in the second half of pregnancy
- Incidental finding at a routine scan
- Non-cephalic fetal presentation
- Contractions or pain when another condition coexists
Diagnosis and the role of ultrasound
Transvaginal ultrasound is safe and most accurate for measuring the distance between the placental edge and internal cervical opening. Follow-up timing depends on the initial result and bleeding history.
- Whether the placenta covers the opening
- Exact placental-edge distance
- Anterior or posterior location
- Possible placenta accreta spectrum signs
Treatment and next steps
Care depends on bleeding, gestational age and final placental position. It may include repeat imaging, individualized activity advice, hospital observation and planned mode and timing of delivery.
When is urgent care needed?
- Any new bright bleeding during pregnancy
- Bleeding with weakness, dizziness, contractions or pain
- Reduced fetal movement