The low location of the placenta is a fairly common pregnancy pathology, which is very common in the first two trimesters.
Under good pregnancy conditions, the placenta should attach to the bottom of the uterus or to its posterior wall, sometimes with a transition to the side. It is in these places that it has the best blood circulation and is protected from possible injuries. The low location of the placenta is a pathology in which its attachment occurred 6 centimeters below the pharynx of the cervix. This can only be seen with an ultrasound scan. In most cases, by the end of pregnancy, the low-lying placenta rises and releases the uterine pharynx.
Causes
The placenta is formed where the egg is attached. If there is any defect in the uterine wall in the place prescribed for this, then in order to “survive”, it will attach to any other area where there are all conditions for this. Such a pathology can occur after infectious diseases, abortions or difficult births. Also, the low location of the placenta can be caused by multiple pregnancy and the presence of uterine fibroids.
The dangers
The main danger that can occur with a low location of the placenta is the termination of pregnancy. As a rule, this occurs due to placental abruption, which in turn is caused by an ever-growing uterus. Its maximum pressure falls precisely on the lower segment, where the placenta is located.
Signs of placental abruption
The main and most visible sign of placental abruption is bleeding resulting from damage to the uteroplacental vessels. As a result, its separation occurs. Between the walls of the uterus and the placenta, blood accumulates and a hematoma forms, which gradually increases and enhances the detachment process. This leads to compression of the placenta and the termination of its functioning. 3 degrees of this pathology are distinguished:
- Easy. Symptoms are not observed and detection of detachment is possible only during ultrasound or at the time of birth, when a hole with dark blood clots is found on the placenta.
- Medium. Minor spotting and abdominal pain appear. The uterus is in a little tension.
- A severe degree is manifested by sudden bleeding, severe abdominal pain, dizziness, lowering blood pressure and temperature. Shortness of breath, sweating, and severe weakness appear. The uterus is very stressed. If there are scars on it, then it may rupture.
In order to avoid all of the above complications, women who have found a low placenta should carefully monitor their condition. It is advisable to abandon sexual relations, thermal procedures and, of course, physical exertion. To accelerate the rise of the placenta, going to bed, it is necessary to put your feet on a pillow or other elevation. And most importantly, with the slightest ailment and the appearance of pain or spotting, do not hope that everything will pass soon, but immediately consult a doctor.