Placenta previa is a condition where the placenta partially or fully covers the opening of the cervix, which can lead to dangerous bleeding during pregnancy or childbirth. It typically develops after 24 weeks of pregnancy and is diagnosed via ultrasound. Potential complications include hemorrhage, shock, fetal distress, premature delivery, and even death of the mother or baby. Treatment focuses on limiting activity and avoiding any causes of bleeding, with emergency caesarean delivery often required to deliver the baby safely.
17. Possible complication
Major haemorrhage (bleeding) for the mother
Shock from loss of blood
Fetal distress from lack of oxygen
Premature labour or delivery
Health risks to the baby, if born prematurely
Emergency caesarean delivery
Hysterectomy, if the placenta fails to come away
from the uterine lining
Blood loss for the baby
Death.
