As much as we may wish that the knowledge we’ve gained through generations, combined with modern medical advancements, gives us complete control over pregnancy, the reality is often quite different. Those who have been pregnant understand that despite adhering to guidelines and recommendations from trusted sources, many aspects of pregnancy remain a mystery. This uncertainty can be daunting, especially when transitioning to newborn care.
This isn’t meant to frighten you; it’s simply a reminder that if things don’t go as planned during a pregnancy, questioning the pregnant individual about what they might have done differently is not helpful—no matter the intention. If you’re here because you or someone close to you has been diagnosed with placenta accreta, you likely want to understand the symptoms, risks, treatments, and management associated with this condition. Here’s what you should know.
What Are the Symptoms of Placenta Accreta?
Placenta accreta occurs when the placenta attaches itself too deeply into the uterine wall. According to healthcare experts, this condition can lead to serious complications, such as the placenta not being delivered after the baby is born, and potential heavy bleeding when doctors attempt to remove it. Generally, there are no noticeable symptoms during pregnancy, but if symptoms do occur, they may include vaginal bleeding in the third trimester.
What Causes Placenta Accreta?
While researchers haven’t identified a single definitive cause of placenta accreta, many individuals with this condition often have abnormalities in the uterine lining, typically due to scarring from a prior C-section or uterine surgery. However, not everyone diagnosed with placenta accreta has such scarring. Other risk factors include:
- Placenta Position: If the placenta is situated lower in the uterus or covers the cervix (placenta previa), this could heighten the risk.
- Maternal Age: The condition is more frequently seen in women over 35.
- Previous Childbirth: The likelihood of developing placenta accreta increases with each pregnancy.
Types of Placenta Accreta
There are two other types of placenta accreta, categorized by how deeply the placenta attaches to the uterus:
- Placenta Increta: The placenta is embedded in the uterine wall but does not penetrate through it.
- Placenta Percreta: This is the most severe form, where the placenta grows through the uterine wall and can affect surrounding organs.
How Is Placenta Accreta Diagnosed?
Placenta accreta may sometimes be detected during routine ultrasounds, but it is more commonly diagnosed during delivery. If suspected while still pregnant, ultrasound can often confirm the diagnosis, although MRI may be employed if ultrasound results are inconclusive. Notably, a pre-delivery diagnosis does not necessarily affect the delivery outcome; some individuals diagnosed with the condition can still have a standard delivery.
Treatment Options for Placenta Accreta
Treatment for placenta accreta varies based on when it is diagnosed and the severity. Surgery is typically required, which may involve the complete or partial removal of the placenta. Methods of removal include cord traction, which is preferred for its reduced blood loss and shorter hospital stay, and manual removal, where a doctor physically retrieves the placenta from the uterine wall.
If diagnosed early and the case appears serious, discussions may lead to scheduling a C-section followed by a hysterectomy to mitigate the risk of severe blood loss. Generally, the ovaries are left intact during a hysterectomy to avoid premature menopause.
What Happens If the Placenta Is Left Behind?
It’s crucial that the placenta is fully removed after delivery. If it remains within the uterus, it can prevent the uterus from closing properly, leading to hemorrhaging. Ideally, the placenta should be delivered within 30 minutes post-birth. Failure to do so can result in uterine scarring, the need for blood transfusions, or even a hysterectomy, all of which can be life-threatening without immediate treatment.
For more insights, check out this post on related topics. Additionally, Make a Mom offers valuable resources on fertility journeys. For comprehensive information on IUI success rates, WebMD is an excellent reference.
Summary
Placenta accreta is a serious condition where the placenta attaches too deeply to the uterine wall, potentially leading to complications. While its exact causes remain unclear, factors such as uterine scarring, maternal age, and previous pregnancies can increase risk. Diagnosis often occurs via ultrasound or MRI, and treatment typically involves surgical intervention. Prompt removal of the placenta post-delivery is essential to prevent severe health risks.