Publication:

An analysis of pregnancy outcomes in relation to the location of placenta previa

Background The improper implantation of the placenta above or near the cervical os is called placenta previa, and it causes significant maternal and newborn morbidity. Major placenta previa is more dangerous due to its larger cervical os placental covering. The study evaluated pregnancy outcomes in relation to the location of placenta previa, focusing on the differences between major and minor cases to inform optimal management strategies.

Methods This retrospective cohort study comprised 200 pregnant women diagnosed with placenta previa. Patients were classified into major (n=120) and minor (n=80) placenta previa groups based on ultrasound findings. Data on maternal and neonatal outcomes were extracted from medical records and analyzed using statistical package for the social sciences (SPSS) version 23. A p value of <0.05 was deemed to be statistically significant.

Results Major placenta previa was related with significantly higher rates of adverse outcomes compared to minor placenta previa. Preterm birth occurred in 50% of major cases compared to 30% in minor cases (p=0.01). Maternal hemorrhage was more frequent in the major group (40%) versus the minor group (20%) (p=0.002). Neonatal Apgar scores <7 at 5 minutes were observed in 30% of major cases compared to 10% of minor cases (p=0.001). Additionally, major placenta previa was linked to higher rates of placenta accreta, uterine atony, and the need for blood transfusions and hysterectomies.

Conclusions Major placenta previa increases the likelihood of unfavourable mother and foetal outcomes compared to minor. These findings emphasise the necessity of early diagnosis and targeted care to improve health outcomes.