Placenta previa is a condition that occurs during pregnancy when the placenta is located low in the uterus and covers all or part of the cervix. This can cause bleeding during pregnancy, particularly in the third trimester, as the cervix begins to thin and dilate in preparation for delivery.

The exact cause of placenta previa is not known, but certain factors can increase the risk of developing the condition, including previous cesarean delivery, advanced maternal age, multiple pregnancies, and smoking.

The most common symptom of placenta previa is painless vaginal bleeding, which typically occurs in the later stages of pregnancy. Other symptoms may include contractions, pelvic pain, and a low-lying placenta detected on ultrasound.

Diagnosis of placenta previa is typically made through ultrasound imaging. In some cases, a follow-up ultrasound may be needed to confirm the diagnosis and assess the location of the placenta.

The treatment of placenta previa depends on the severity of the condition and the stage of pregnancy. Mild cases may be managed with bed rest and close monitoring, while more severe cases may require hospitalization and delivery by cesarean section. In some cases, the placenta may be located in a position that makes vaginal delivery possible, but this is determined on a case-by-case basis.

It is important to seek medical attention if you experience any symptoms of placenta previa during pregnancy, as early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent serious complications for both the mother and baby.

The exact cause of placenta previa is unknown.

There is no medical or surgical treatment to cure placenta previa, but there are several options to manage the bleeding caused by placenta previa.

Management of the bleeding depends on various factors, including:

• The amount of bleeding
• Whether the bleeding has stopped
• How far along your pregnancy is
• Your health
• Your baby's health
• The position of the placenta and the baby

If placenta previa doesn't resolve during your pregnancy, the goal of treatment is to help you get as close to your due date as possible. Almost all women with unresolved placenta previa require a cesarean delivery.

For little or no bleeding

Your health care provider might recommend rest, which means avoiding activities that can trigger bleeding, such as sex and exercise.

Be prepared to seek emergency medical care if you begin to bleed. You'll need to be able to get to the hospital quickly if bleeding resumes or gets heavier.

If the placenta is low lying but doesn't cover the cervix, you might be able to have a vaginal delivery. Your health care provider will discuss this option with you.

For heavy bleeding

Heavy bleeding requires immediate medical attention at your nearest emergency health facility. Severe bleeding might require a blood transfusion.

Your health care provider will likely plan a C-section as soon as the baby can be delivered safely, ideally after 36 weeks of pregnancy. However, you might need to have an earlier delivery if heavy bleeding persists or if you have multiple bleeding episodes.

If your delivery is planned before 37 weeks, your doctor will offer you corticosteroids to help your baby's lungs develop.

For bleeding that won't stop

If your bleeding can't be controlled or your baby is in distress, you'll likely need an emergency C-section — even if the baby is premature.