HomeAnswersObstetrics and Gynecologylow lying placentaCan a C-section be a life-threatening process for low-lying placenta cases?

I have a low-lying placenta. Will C-section be a life-threatening process for me?

Share

The following is an actual conversation between an iCliniq user and a doctor that has been reviewed and published as a Premium Q&A.

Medically reviewed by

Dr. Preetha. J

Published At October 29, 2020
Reviewed AtOctober 29, 2020

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

I have a partial placenta, which is lying low.

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I went through your ultrasound report (attachment removed to protect patient identity) regarding the low lying placenta. Many women (about 1 in 20) will be told their placenta is low at 20 to 25 weeks. Still, as the uterus stretches with the growing baby, the distance between the placenta's lowest edge and the cervix will increase. The placenta is clear of the cervix, and vaginal birth is perfectly safe. More than 95% of the placenta moves away from the cervix by the time of delivery. In almost 90% of cases, the placenta will be clear of the cervix by 32 weeks' gestation and almost 96% by 36 weeks. You can do another scan at 32 weeks to confirm the placental localization. I hope this answers your query. Feel free to reach out with any further questions.

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

Thank you for your reply. Yesterday the person who took the scan had said that bleeding might happen since the placenta is lying low. It scared me. Moreover, my first pregnancy is a normal delivery. My question is, in case of cesarean section performed for the above reason. Is it a life-threatening process for the cesarean section performed for a low lying placenta?

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

As I mentioned above, the placenta will move away from the cervix in the latter part of pregnancy. Just in case it does not move (which is rare), then the cesarean section is performed, and it is not life-threatening. There is a risk of bleeding, but it will be managed well. Do not worry about it. Everything will be fine. Take care.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Dr. Priyadarshini Tripathy
Dr. Priyadarshini Tripathy

Obstetrics and Gynecology

Community Banner Mobile
By subscribing, I agree to iCliniq's Terms & Privacy Policy.

Ask your health query to a doctor online

Obstetrics and Gynecology

*guaranteed answer within 4 hours

Disclaimer: No content published on this website is intended to be a substitute for professional medical diagnosis, advice or treatment by a trained physician. Seek advice from your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with questions you may have regarding your symptoms and medical condition for a complete medical diagnosis. Do not delay or disregard seeking professional medical advice because of something you have read on this website. Read our Editorial Process to know how we create content for health articles and queries.

This website uses cookies to ensure you get the best experience on our website. iCliniq privacy policy