Becoming a mother is an exciting time in a woman’s life. While it is full of joyous moments, it is also a time when the body undergoes numerous changes to accommodate the developing fetus.

One of the essential development in pregnancy is the formation of the placenta. The placenta is a vital organ that helps in providing the necessary nutrients and oxygen to the developing fetus.

What is Placenta Accreta?

Placenta accreta is a severe pregnancy complication that occurs when the placenta grows too deeply into the uterus’s wall.

Instead of propagating its self once the pregnancy is complete, it remains steadfastly attached and will not detach naturally. Placenta accreta is divided into three main categories: placenta accreta, placenta increta, and placenta percreta.

Symptoms of Placenta Accreta

Due to the location of the placenta, it can be hard to detect placenta accreta during pregnancy. However, some of the common symptoms of placenta accreta include:.

Uterine bleeding during pregnancy
Tender uterus
Slow fetal growth
Abnormal placenta location during the second trimester ultrasound
Inability to deliver the placenta after childbirth

Risk Factors for Placenta Accreta

Although placenta accreta can occur in any pregnancy, there are specific steps that increase this risk. Some of the risk factors include:.

There is a history of uterine surgery.
There is a history of placenta previa.
The woman has undergone a cesarean delivery in previous births.
The woman has had a history of radiation therapy in the pelvic area.
The woman has experienced a history of uterine trauma.

Complications Arising from Placenta Accreta

Placenta accreta can be life-threatening if not handled well. Here are some of the potential complications associated with placenta accreta:.

Heavy bleeding (hemorrhage) during childbirth and labor induction
Emergency hysterectomy – very severe cases may require the woman’s uterus to be surgically removed after delivery to stop the bleeding.
Difficulties with stopping bleeding during surgical removal of the placenta that has remained attached
Loss of maternal life
Error in blood transfusion leading to bloodborne burdens

Treatment of Placenta Accreta

The treatment of placenta accreta requires the attention of highly specialized medical personnel.

A team comprising obstetricians, hematologists, neonatologists, pathologists, and anesthesiologists who will work together to manage the delivery of the baby.

Cesarean delivery is generally recommended in deliveries where placenta accreta is detected.

According to a study conducted by the National Institutes of Health, if the placenta accreta is located at the cervix’s edge, performing the cesarean section at 34-35 weeks of pregnancy optimizes maternal safety.

In some cases, the obstetrician may opt to leave the placenta untouched after cesarean delivery, attempting to control bleeding. If persistent hemorrhage follows delivery, the obstetrician may recommend blood transfusion or hysterectomy.

Prevention of Placenta Accreta

It is not always possible to prevent placenta accreta. However, here are some of the steps to reduce the risk of placenta accreta:.

Avoid getting pregnant if you have a history of uterine surgery
If you had previous cesarean delivery, try to avoid a repeat cesarean delivery
If possible, seek delivery services conducted by experienced medical professionals

Caring for Women with Placenta Accreta

Caring for women who are at risk, or have already experienced placenta accreta involves a comprehensive approach to fistula and hysterectomy management. The patient will also undergo regular observation for the development of new complications.

They will be strictly monitored for symptoms such as shock, heavy bleeding, and infections that can impair their quality of life.

Conclusion

Placenta accreta is a dangerous pregnancy complication that requires urgent attention during delivery.

The symptoms are not easy to identify, and it is essential that all women seek professional health care during pregnancy to assess the situation before it gets worse.