Pregnant Women Must Know! These are the risks and treatments if the placenta is low lying

The placenta is an organ that develops during pregnancy and is responsible for distributing nutrients and oxygen and removing waste from the baby to the mother's body. Under normal conditions, the placenta attaches to the top or side of the uterine wall. However, in some cases, the placenta can be in a low position in the uterus, known as a low-lying placenta. This condition needs more attention because it can cause complications for the mother and fetus.

What is a low-lying placenta? 

A low-lying placenta occurs when it attaches to the bottom of the uterus and covers part or all of the cervix. In general, this condition can be detected from the first or second trimester through an ultrasound examination (USG). However, as the fetus grows, the placenta will often "rise" as the uterus enlarges. If this condition continues until the third trimester, it is considered a more serious case and requires close monitoring.

Possible risks: 

1. Heavy bleeding during pregnancy or childbirth

 A low-lying placenta can increase the risk of bleeding, especially when entering the third trimester or before delivery. This bleeding can occur suddenly and without initial symptoms, so it is very dangerous for the mother and fetus. 

2. Fetal Growth

Disorders Because the position of the placenta is not ideal, the supply of oxygen and nutrients to the fetus can be disrupted, which can have an impact on the growth and development of the fetus. This condition can potentially cause low birth weight. 

3. Premature Birth

Mothers with a low-lying placenta are more at risk of experiencing premature contractions, which can cause premature birth. Babies born prematurely are more susceptible to various health complications because their organs are immature. 

4. Cesarean Delivery

If the placenta completely covers the cervix or placenta previa, then normal delivery becomes very risky. Therefore, doctors will usually recommend cesarean delivery to reduce the risk of bleeding.

How to Care and Handle

1. Enough rest

One method recommended for pregnant women with a low-lying placenta is to get enough rest and avoid excessive physical activity. Strenuous activities, such as lifting weights or intense exercise, can increase the risk of bleeding. 

2. Close Monitoring with Regular Checks

Pregnant women with a low-lying placenta are advised to have regular check-ups with an obstetrician. Through ultrasound, the position of the placenta will continue to be monitored to determine whether its location changes as the uterus grows. The doctor will also check the overall health of the fetus. 

3. Use of Certain

Medications In some cases, a doctor may prescribe medication to prevent premature contractions or bleeding. Use of these drugs must always be under the supervision of a doctor to avoid dangerous side effects. 

4. Cesarean Delivery

Plan If the placenta does not move up in the third trimester or even close to the time of delivery, the doctor will usually consider cesarean delivery as the best step. This is done to reduce the risk of complications and ensure the safety of the mother and baby.

Prevention that can be done

Although a low-lying placenta cannot be completely prevented, there are several steps you can take to reduce the risk. One way is to maintain the health of the uterus and pregnancy in general. A nutritious diet, adequate rest, and regular check-ups with a doctor are important steps in maintaining a healthy pregnancy. Avoiding smoking and alcohol consumption can also help reduce the risk of a low-lying placenta.

Conclusion

A low-lying placenta is a condition that requires extra attention for pregnant women. With proper treatment, many pregnant women who experience this condition can still have a healthy pregnancy and give birth safely. Regular consultations with an obstetrician and following medical recommendations are very important to ensure the health of the mother and fetus. Don't hesitate to consult if you experience suspicious symptoms or need further information. 

Downloading the Hermina Mobile Apps application will help you manage your health needs more easily and efficiently, especially for services at Hermina Arcamanik Hospital.

 

Reference

1. Nusrah, R., & Hartono, E. (2021). Manajemen Risiko Plasenta Previa pada Kehamilan. Jurnal Ilmiah Kesehatan, 15(2), 67-75.
2. Rahmawati, S. (2022). Plasenta Letak Rendah dan Komplikasinya dalam Kehamilan. Jurnal Kebidanan dan Keperawatan, 18(1), 45-53.
3. Suparman, H. (2020). Peran Pemeriksaan Ultrasonografi dalam Deteksi Dini Plasenta Previa. Jurnal Kesehatan Masyarakat, 10(3), 34-42.