THE PLACENTA

The placenta is an organ that develops in the uterus during pregnancy. (Birthing parents grow a whole organ!) It provides oxygen and nutrients to Baby and removes waste products from Baby’s blood. 

The placenta attaches to the wall of the uterus - the top, side, front or back of the uterus. In rare cases, the placenta might attach in the lower area of the uterus, partially or fully covering the cervix (opening of the uterus to the vagina), which is called placenta previa. 

What impacts the health of the placenta?

• Maternal age - some issue are more common in women over 40

• High blood pressure - can affect the placenta

• Twin or multiples pregnancy 

• Blood clotting disorders 

• Previous uterine surgery - previous surgeries like a cesarean or fibroid removal increases potential risks

• Nicotine or cocaine usage

• Abdominal trauma - a car accident, fall, or another type of blow increases the risk for the placenta prematurely separating from the uterus, a placental abruption.

What are signs or symptoms of placental problems?

Consult your health care provider during pregnancy if you have:

• Vaginal bleeding

• Abdominal pain

• Back pain

• Uterine contractions

Read about potential placental problems here.

What can I do to reduce my risk of placental problems?

Unfortunately, most placental problems can't be directly prevented. 

If you've had a placental problem during a previous pregnancy and are planning another pregnancy, talk to your health care provider about ways to reduce the risk of experiencing the condition again. Also tell your health care provider if you've had surgery on your uterus in the past. Expect your health care provider to monitor your condition closely throughout the pregnancy.

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