What is placenta praevia?
The placenta is an organ unique to mammals that connects the developing fetus to the mother’s uterine wall. The placenta supplies the fetus with oxygen and food, and allows fetal waste to be disposed of via the maternal kidneys. Placenta Praevia is a complication in which the placenta is attached to the uterine wall close to or covering the cervix. It can sometimes occur in the later part of the first trimester, but usually during the second or third. It is a leading cause of vaginal bleeding. Usually this doesn’t harm your baby, but if you have vaginal bleeding you must tell the doctor or midwife. A persistent placenta praevia will obstruct the passage of the baby through the birth canal and a Caesarean section may be necessary.
