The 3 Common Placenta Problems During Pregnancy

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The placenta is a structure which facilitates the proper development of the fetus in the uterus. It is through the placenta that the developing fetus in the uterus receives its share of nutrients.

This structure which connects the fetus to the uterine wall also facilitates gas exchange and elimination of waste with the blood of the mother. Sometimes, pregnant women may develop certain problems with the placenta during the course of their pregnancy.

Having problems with the placenta reduces the chances of having a healthy pregnancy and also hinders the proper development of the baby. Given below are 3 of the common placenta problems during pregnancy that one may encounter.

Placental Abruption

Placental abruption which is otherwise known as abruptio placentae is a condition in which the placenta separates from the wall of the uterus. This extremely dangerous condition which occurs during the third trimester, can affect the health of both the mother and the fetus.

There are many factors which can cause placental abruption. Pregnant women having high blood pressure and diabetes are very prone to develop this condition. The age of the mother, usage of drugs during pregnancy and multiple pregnancies are the other risk factors of placental abruption.The most common symptom of placental abruption is heavy bleeding. The other symptoms include abdominal pain and tightening of the abdomen.

The condition of placental abruption can be confirmed by performing an ultrasound. If the abruption is severe, then the physician will perform an immediate C section. If the abruption is not severe and the woman is very close to her due date, then the physician will place the woman under close monitoring and will advise bed rest.

Photo Credit : Parenthots.com/features/Signs-and-symtoms-of-a-dangerous-pregnancy.aspx

Placental Insufficiency

Placental insufficiency is a condition in which the placenta fails to function properly. In such a condition, the fetus fails to receive proper nutrients and the removal of baby’s waste will also be hindered.

If the uterus of the pregnant woman is found to be small for her gestational age, then it can be considered as a sign of placental insufficiency. One should also be worried if a decrease in the movements of the baby is noticed.

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The condition of placental insufficiency can affect the health status of the fetus. The fetus will exhibit poor weight gain and will have a very high chance of being delivered by a C section. At times placental insufficiency can also bring about IUGR( Intra Uterine Growth Retardation).

Women who have previously had babies of low birth weight and who have conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure are prone to have placental insufficiency. Women who have umbilical cord defects and those who have the habits of smoking and alcohol consumption are also at a high risk of developing this condition.

Women having these conditions should be extra careful and need to be monitored very closely. In order to prevent placental insufficiency it is necessary that the pregnant woman have folate supplements and have a well balanced diet.

Placenta Previa

Placenta previa is a condition in which the placenta attaches at a lower position in the uterus and covers the cervix in a complete or partial manner. Women having placenta previa will experience spotting in the first and second trimesters.

After 20 weeks, there will be heavy vaginal bleeding and severe abdominal cramping. This condition is usually detected by an ultrasound. Women having placenta previa are prone to have placental abruption and may go into preterm labor. If the cervix is completely closed at the time of delivery, then the physician will opt for a C section.

Photo Credit : Thepregnancycentral.com/2011/07/placenta-previa-a-pregnancy-complication/