Placenta previa is when the placenta grows in the lower part of the uterus instead of connecting to the uterine wall during pregnancy. This can occur at any time in your pregnancy and can block the cervix — the passage to the birth canal — and lead to bleeding.
Signs You May Have Placenta Previa
Patients older than age 35, patients who have had uterine surgeries or assisted reproductive technology, smokers or those with a history of placenta previa are at a greater risk for developing the condition. Vaginal bleeding is the primary sign that something might be wrong with your placenta. Typically with placenta previa, there is no pain associated unless you are also experiencing labor signs, like contractions.
Placenta Previa Treatment at Rush
Visiting your pregnancy care provider regularly is the best way to reduce placenta previa risks. Ultrasounds and physical exams can help diagnose problems and allow your provider to develop a care plan personalized to your needs.
If your placenta previa is more complex, Rush has maternal-fetal medicine specialists who completed advanced training to care for women with high-risk pregnancies. They partner with you and your provider to develop a treatment plan based on your unique condition.
Treatments could include limiting your activities, medications to prevent early labor or hospitalization to monitor you more closely.
Meet our placenta providers
Rush Excellence in Placenta Previa Care
- Among the nation’s best for gynecologic care: U.S. News & World Report ranked Rush University Medical Center among the best in the country for gynecologic care.
- Experts ready to care for you: If you’re at risk of developing placenta previa, it’s important to choose a hospital that has the specialists you need for all stages of your pregnancy. Maternal-fetal medicine specialists at Rush University Medical Center and Rush Copley Medical Center care for high-risk pregnancies with expertise and advanced resources, including the latest ultrasound technology.
- Dedicated care for complex conditions: At the Rush Family Birth Centers at Rush University Medical Center and Rush Copley Medical Center, we offer patient rooms dedicated to caring for pregnant moms facing complicated deliveries. These rooms offer both a comfortable space and the opportunity for providers to monitor you more closely as you wait to welcome your baby.
- Highest level of care for babies born early: Sometimes an early delivery can best control your placenta previa and help to keep you and your baby safe. Rush University Medical Center and Rush Copley Medical Center offer level III neonatal intensive care units, providing the highest level of care to premature babies. Also, our labor and delivery rooms are located near our NICUs so when seconds matter most, both you and your baby can get the care you need.