Professional
Technical
In the Industry Vocabulary Test
placenta previa
Pronunciation: plah-SEN-tah PREE-vee-ah
A condition where the placenta partially or completely covers the cervical opening (cervical os).
Full Definition
Placenta previa occurs when the placenta implants in the lower part of the uterus, covering part or all of the cervical opening. This condition is classified as complete (total coverage), partial (partial coverage), or marginal (placental edge touches the cervix). The main symptom is painless vaginal bleeding in the second or third trimester. Placenta previa typically requires cesarean delivery to avoid catastrophic hemorrhage during labor when the cervix dilates.
Usage
Usage note: Italicize 'previa' as it's Latin; distinguish from placental abruption which causes painful bleeding.
In Context
- "Complete placenta previa was diagnosed at 28 weeks, requiring cesarean delivery." — Ultrasound findings
- "The patient experienced painless bleeding due to marginal placenta previa." — Emergency department evaluation
Also known as
low-lying placenta
Don't confuse with
placental abruption
vasa previa