PREGNANCY COMPLICATIONS

Placenta previa
Placenta previa occurs when the placenta lies at the bottom of the womb, covering the cervix and blocking your baby's exit passage. If your placenta is covering your entire cervix, it is known as complete placenta previa. If your placenta is only covering part of your cervix, it is known as marginal placenta previa. Placenta previa is more common in women who smoke during pregnancy, are carrying multiple babies, or have had previous uterine surgery.

Symptoms
Few symptoms other than vaginal bleeding. Usually found on an ultrasound exam as an unexpected observation.

Complications
Over 90% of placenta previas resolve without treatment. Because a placenta previa blocks the cervix, the exit for the womb, it can cause serious problems with vaginal delivery.
Complications include severe bleeding, infection, and preterm birth.

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