Placental disorder

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Placental Disorders

A placental disorder is a pathological condition of the placenta, the organ that connects the developing fetus to the uterine wall to allow nutrient uptake, waste elimination, and gas exchange via the mother's blood supply. Placental disorders are a leading cause of maternal and fetal morbidity and mortality.

Types of Placental Disorders[edit | edit source]

There are several types of placental disorders, including:

  • Placenta Previa: This condition occurs when the placenta covers the cervix, either partially or completely. It can cause severe bleeding during pregnancy and delivery.
  • Placental Abruption: This is a serious condition in which the placenta detaches from the uterus before the baby is born. It can deprive the baby of oxygen and nutrients and cause heavy bleeding in the mother.
  • Placenta Accreta: In this condition, the placenta attaches too deeply and firmly to the uterine wall. It can cause complications during delivery, including severe bleeding.
  • Placental Infarction: This is a condition where parts of the placenta die due to a blockage in the blood supply.

Causes[edit | edit source]

The exact causes of placental disorders are not fully understood. However, some factors that may increase the risk include smoking, alcohol use, drug abuse, high blood pressure, diabetes, and advanced maternal age.

Symptoms[edit | edit source]

Symptoms of placental disorders can vary depending on the specific disorder, but may include vaginal bleeding, abdominal pain, back pain, uterine contractions, and changes in baby movement.

Diagnosis[edit | edit source]

Placental disorders are typically diagnosed through ultrasound imaging. Other diagnostic tests may include blood tests, amniocentesis, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

Treatment[edit | edit source]

Treatment for placental disorders depends on the specific disorder and the severity of the condition. It may include bed rest, medication, or in severe cases, early delivery of the baby.

See Also[edit | edit source]



This obstetrics related article is a stub.

This gynecology related article is a stub. You can help WikiMD by expanding it.

WikiMD
Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index‏‎ - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes

Search WikiMD

Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro / Zepbound) available.
Advertise on WikiMD

WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Let Food Be Thy Medicine
Medicine Thy Food - Hippocrates

Medical Disclaimer: WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. The information on WikiMD is provided as an information resource only, may be incorrect, outdated or misleading, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. Please consult your health care provider before making any healthcare decisions or for guidance about a specific medical condition. WikiMD expressly disclaims responsibility, and shall have no liability, for any damages, loss, injury, or liability whatsoever suffered as a result of your reliance on the information contained in this site. By visiting this site you agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, which may from time to time be changed or supplemented by WikiMD. If you do not agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, you should not enter or use this site. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD