Placenta previa typically results in delivery by what route and what postpartum concern is increased?

Placenta previa typically results in delivery by what route and what postpartum concern is increased?

• A. Vaginal delivery with episiotomy
• B. Induction at 41 weeks
• C. Home birth with midwife
• D. Cesarean delivery; increased risk of postpartum hemorrhage

Answer: (D)

Placenta previa means the placenta is implanted low in the uterus, near or covering the cervix. This location blocks the birth canal and can cause significant, often painless, vaginal bleeding as the cervix and uterus change during pregnancy. Because labor or cervical dilation can cause the placenta to detach and bleed severely, the safest delivery route is cesarean delivery to prevent life-threatening hemorrhage for mother and baby. After delivery, the risk of postpartum hemorrhage is increased with placenta previa. The placenta may not separate normally, or the uterus may have trouble contracting (atony), leading to heavy bleeding after birth. This is why careful monitoring and readiness to manage hemorrhage are essential. Vaginal delivery with an episiotomy isn’t appropriate here due to the bleeding risk; induction at 41 weeks doesn’t address the placenta’s location; and home birth with a midwife isn’t suitable because of the potential for abrupt hemorrhage requiring urgent cesarean section.

Placenta previa means the placenta is implanted low in the uterus, near or covering the cervix. This location blocks the birth canal and can cause significant, often painless, vaginal bleeding as the cervix and uterus change during pregnancy. Because labor or cervical dilation can cause the placenta to detach and bleed severely, the safest delivery route is cesarean delivery to prevent life-threatening hemorrhage for mother and baby.

After delivery, the risk of postpartum hemorrhage is increased with placenta previa. The placenta may not separate normally, or the uterus may have trouble contracting (atony), leading to heavy bleeding after birth. This is why careful monitoring and readiness to manage hemorrhage are essential.

Vaginal delivery with an episiotomy isn’t appropriate here due to the bleeding risk; induction at 41 weeks doesn’t address the placenta’s location; and home birth with a midwife isn’t suitable because of the potential for abrupt hemorrhage requiring urgent cesarean section.