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11 September 2025

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3 minute read

When Placenta Blocks The Exit

By Dr. Kartik Balaraman

The journey of pregnancy can be both heart thumping and beautiful, but sometimes, it takes an unexpected turn. One such turn is when the baby’s “lifeline”, the placenta, settles too low in the womb and ends up blocking the baby’s way out. While it may sound worrying, this condition, known medically as placenta previa, can be managed safely with the right care and attention.

Placenta Previa Condition

Placenta previa is a condition during pregnancy where the placenta lies too low in the uterus, either partly or completely covering the opening of the cervix (the passage the baby uses to come out during birth). Since the placenta provides oxygen and nutrients to the baby, its position matters—especially when it blocks the baby’s way out.

Three types of placenta previa based on the degree of cervical coverage in late pregnancy

Figure 1. Normal placenta and types of placenta previa based on the degree of cervical coverage.
Source: Nair, M. (2015). Placenta previa: Diagnosis and management. British Journal of Midwifery, 23(2), 88–93. (Figure 1, p. 89)

How Common Is Placenta Previa During Pregnancy? What Causes It?

An obstetrician explains the warning signs and complications of placenta previa

Placenta previa affects about one in 200 pregnancies. It’s more common earlier in pregnancy, but often corrects itself as the uterus grows.

  • Women who have had previous C-sections or uterine surgery
  • Women carrying twins or multiples
  • Women who smoke or are over the age of 35
  • Women who have had placenta previa before
  • Women with a history of multiple pregnancies

Placenta previa is not caused by something the mother did. It happens when the placenta attaches low in the uterus. Everyday activities like light exercise, lifting, or sex do not cause the condition. That said, once diagnosed, doctors may advise avoiding intercourse or strenuous activity to prevent bleeding.

After a diagnosis of placenta previa, an obstetrician advises to avoid intercourse or strenuous activity

Signs Pregnant Women Should Look Out for

The most common sign is painless vaginal bleeding, especially in the second or third trimester. There may be no cramping or discomfort, just unexpected bleeding. If you notice any vaginal bleeding during pregnancy, do not ignore it, seek medical attention immediately, and avoid intercourse until advised by a doctor. Even if the bleeding stops, it’s important to get checked right away.

Early Detection Through Routine Scans

Placenta previa commonly detected during a routine pregnancy ultrasound scan

Yes, placenta previa is often detected during a routine ultrasound scan (usually around 18–20 weeks). At this stage, many women may be told their placenta is low-lying—but in most cases, it moves upward as the uterus expands. A follow-up scan is usually scheduled later in pregnancy (around 28 weeks) to see if the placenta has moved into a safer position.

Possible Complications for Mother and Baby

Potential complications include heavy bleeding (hemorrhage), which can be dangerous for both mother and baby. Other complications are preterm birth if early delivery is needed in the event of excessive bleeding or a condition that compromises the mother and baby, and the need for blood transfusions or emergency delivery. The good news is that in most cases diagnosed early, the placenta moves away from the cervix as the uterus grows, and the condition resolves on its own. Normally, this is more common in minor placenta previa, whereby the placenta is located at the edge of the cervix or partially covers the cervical opening.

Treatment Required

Treatment depends on the severity and timing of the condition. If there is no bleeding and the placenta is only slightly covering the cervix, your doctor may recommend avoiding strenuous activity, intercourse, and travel. If there is bleeding, you may require hospital observation, bed rest, or medications to prevent early labor. In severe cases, or if the bleeding is heavy or persistent, hospitalization until delivery may be necessary.

Does It Mean the Mother Will Need a C-section?

Yes, in most cases where the placenta is still covering the cervix in late pregnancy, a C-section (Caesarean delivery) is recommended.

However, if the placenta has moved and is at a safe distance from the cervix, a normal vaginal delivery may still be possible. Your doctor will decide based on:
  • Placenta position in late pregnancy
  • Severity and timing of any bleeding
  • Baby’s growth and position
  • Your previous birth history

Traditional Massages to “Push Up” the Placenta: Myth or Fact

Consult your doctor before trying traditional massage or alternative treatments during pregnancy
There is no medical evidence that traditional massages can move the placenta. In fact, such practices can be dangerous, especially if they involve pressure on the abdomen. Doctors strongly advise against any attempt to manually “push up” the placenta—this can cause more bleeding or harm the baby.

Always speak to your healthcare provider before trying any traditional or alternative treatments during pregnancy.

Recovery After Delivery and Future Pregnancies

Recovery depends on how the delivery went. If a C-section was done, healing will take a bit longer—typically 6–8 weeks, with rest and wound care. Most women go on to have healthy pregnancies in the future. However, if you’ve had placenta previa once, there’s a higher chance it may happen again, especially if you’ve had multiple C-sections. Your doctor will monitor more closely in your next pregnancy.

In Summary

While placenta previa can seem worrying, today’s medical advancements allow most mothers and babies to thrive with timely care and proper management. Awareness, early diagnosis, and close monitoring are key to ensuring a safe delivery.

If you or someone you love is expecting, remember: no question is too small when it comes to your health and your baby’s well-being. Always reach out to your healthcare provider if you have any concerns because when it comes to pregnancy, being informed is one of the best gifts you can give yourself and your little one.

This article first appeared in Motherhood, 18 June 2025.

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11 September 2025

•

3 minute read

When Placenta Blocks The Exit

By Dr. Kartik Balaraman

Dr. Kartik Balaraman

Obstetrics And Gynecology, Maternal Fetal Medicine

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