placenta previa
Pronunciation: plah-SEN-tah PREE-vee-ah
Condition where the placenta partially or completely covers the cervical opening, potentially causing bleeding and complications during delivery.
Full Definition
Placenta previa is a pregnancy complication in which the placenta is located low in the uterus and partially or completely covers the cervical os (opening). This condition occurs in approximately 0.3-0.5% of pregnancies and is classified as complete, partial, or marginal depending on the degree of cervical coverage. Placenta previa can cause painless vaginal bleeding, typically in the second or third trimester, and may require cesarean delivery to avoid hemorrhage. Risk factors include previous cesarean sections, advanced maternal age, multiparity, and smoking. The condition is usually diagnosed through ultrasound examination.
Usage
Usage note: Use 'previa' not 'praevia' in American medical writing.
In Context
- "Complete placenta previa was diagnosed at 20 weeks, necessitating pelvic rest and serial monitoring." — Obstetric consultation note