What Is My Risk of Anterior Placenta?

During pregnancy, many women go through a series of ultrasounds and tests as part of their antenatal care. These screenings are crucial for monitoring the baby’s development and the health of the mother. One important aspect that may come up in these scans is the position of the placenta. For some expectant mothers, the placenta may be located at the front of the uterus, a condition known as an anterior placenta. But how does an anterior placenta affect the pregnancy? What are the risks, and what should you know in terms of antenatal care? In this article, we’ll explore the concept of anterior placenta, its potential impact on your pregnancy, and the possible risks associated with it. Understanding how to manage your antenatal health during this phase is essential to ensure both your well-being and the health of your baby. If you have been diagnosed with an anterior placenta or are concerned about it, keep reading for all the information you need to make informed decisions during your pregnancy journey.

What is an Anterior Placenta?

To understand the risks associated with an anterior placenta, it’s important to first understand what it is. The placenta is a vital organ that forms in the uterus during pregnancy. It nourishes the baby by delivering oxygen and nutrients while also removing waste products from the baby’s bloodstream. Placenta positioning refers to where the placenta attaches inside the uterus. In some cases, the placenta may be located at the front of the uterus, and this is referred to as an “anterior placenta.” An anterior placenta means that the placenta is positioned on the front wall of the uterus, facing outward. This position can occur early in pregnancy and may shift as the pregnancy progresses. While having an anterior placenta is generally considered a normal occurrence, it can sometimes affect certain aspects of your pregnancy care and the delivery process.

How Common is an Anterior Placenta?

An anterior placenta occurs in around 20-30% of pregnancies. It is considered a normal variation in the positioning of the placenta. While it can be an unexpected finding, most women with an anterior placenta experience uncomplicated pregnancies. The position of the placenta is typically monitored during your routine antenatal scans, particularly during the second trimester, where the placement can be clearly visualised.

The Impact of an Anterior Placenta on Pregnancy

Although having an anterior placenta is typically not a cause for concern, it can lead to a few differences in how you experience pregnancy. Below are some common factors and potential risks associated with an anterior placenta:

1. Fetal Movement Perception: One of the most noticeable effects of an anterior placenta is how it affects the perception of fetal movements. The placenta acts as a cushion between your baby and your abdominal wall, which can make it harder for you to feel your baby’s movements, especially in the early stages of pregnancy. This may make it feel like your baby is less active than others, but it’s important to note that this is a normal outcome of having an anterior placenta.
   • What you can do: If you’re concerned about not feeling your baby move, talk to your healthcare provider. You may need additional monitoring during your antenatal appointments to ensure everything is progressing as it should be.
2. Risk of Placenta Previa: In rare cases, an anterior placenta can increase the risk of placenta previa, a condition where the placenta is low-lying and covers the cervix. This can cause complications during childbirth, as it may block the baby’s exit route. If diagnosed early, placenta previa can be monitored and managed to avoid complications during delivery.
   • What you can do: Regular antenatal checkups and scans are essential. Your doctor will closely monitor the position of the placenta, and if it’s found to be low-lying, they may advise you on a plan for delivery, which may include a caesarean section.
3. Increased Risk of Postpartum Hemorrhage: Another potential risk associated with an anterior placenta is an increased risk of postpartum hemorrhage (PPH). This is because the placenta may be more difficult to detach from the uterine wall after birth, which can lead to heavier bleeding. While this risk is relatively low, it’s something that healthcare providers consider when planning your birth.
   • What you can do: Discuss your delivery options with your healthcare provider. If there are concerns about PPH, your doctor will have a plan in place to manage bleeding and ensure a safe delivery.
4. Labour and Delivery Considerations: The position of the placenta can affect your labour and delivery experience. If the placenta is anterior and covers a significant portion of the cervix, your doctor may recommend a caesarean section. However, in most cases, an anterior placenta will not prevent you from having a vaginal birth. It’s important to have open communication with your healthcare team to understand how the position of the placenta may impact your birth plan.
   • What you can do: Be sure to attend your antenatal appointments regularly, and keep your healthcare provider informed about any changes in your health or concerns you may have regarding your labour and delivery.
5. Ultrasound Visualisation: Another consideration for those with an anterior placenta is that it may affect the clarity of certain ultrasound images. Since the placenta is positioned at the front, it can sometimes obstruct the view of the baby during an ultrasound scan. Your doctor may need to perform additional scans or use different techniques to get a clear image of the baby.
   • What you can do: If you’re having an ultrasound and your healthcare provider mentions difficulty seeing certain areas, don’t be alarmed. It’s just a result of the placenta’s position and is typically not a cause for concern.

Managing Antenatal Care with an Anterior Placenta

If you have been diagnosed with an anterior placenta, it’s essential to continue with your regular antenatal care. Attending antenatal appointments and scans will allow your healthcare provider to monitor the position of your placenta and check the health of your baby. Here are some general tips for managing your antenatal care when you have an anterior placenta:

1. Regular Antenatal Appointments: Ensure you attend all scheduled antenatal checkups, especially your ultrasounds. These appointments will help monitor the placenta’s position and make adjustments to your care if needed.
2. Monitoring Fetal Movements: Be proactive in tracking your baby’s movements. If you have difficulty feeling them due to the anterior placenta, be sure to discuss any concerns with your healthcare provider, who can offer further guidance or arrange additional monitoring.
3. Prenatal Care: Follow any prenatal care guidelines given to you by your healthcare provider. This may include taking antenatal vitamins, staying active with antenatal fitness, or attending antenatal classes for education on childbirth and breastfeeding.
4. Know Your Birth Plan: Discuss your birth plan thoroughly with your healthcare provider. While most women with an anterior placenta deliver vaginally, it’s important to know your options and any considerations that may arise due to your placenta’s position.
5. Prepare for Possible Complications: Although rare, complications like placenta previa or postpartum hemorrhage can arise. By staying informed and in close contact with your healthcare provider, you can prepare for these possibilities and ensure a safe delivery.

When to Seek Medical Advice

While an anterior placenta is usually not a cause for concern, it’s essential to seek medical advice if you notice any of the following:

• Reduced Fetal Movement: If you notice a significant decrease in your baby’s movements, contact your healthcare provider immediately. Even though an anterior placenta can make movements harder to feel, a sudden drop in activity should always be investigated.
• Heavy Bleeding: If you experience any vaginal bleeding during pregnancy, seek immediate medical attention. This could be a sign of placenta previa or other complications that need to be addressed right away.
• Severe Abdominal Pain: If you experience sharp, persistent abdominal pain, this should not be ignored. Contact your healthcare provider for guidance and potential investigation. In most cases, having an anterior placenta does not cause significant complications for the pregnancy or the delivery process. However, it is essential to maintain regular antenatal care to monitor the positioning of your placenta and ensure the health of both you and your baby. Your healthcare provider will work with you to make any necessary adjustments to your pregnancy care, including advising you on how to manage fetal movements, monitoring for potential risks, and planning for delivery. By staying informed and proactive in your antenatal appointments, you can ensure a healthy and safe pregnancy journey, even with an anterior placenta.