Chances of placenta accreta

Your own likelihood cannot be inferred from one factor alone. The position of the placenta, previous caesarean births or uterine surgery, and the appearance on targeted imaging are considered together by the maternity team.

Placenta accreta spectrum means placental tissue is abnormally attached to, or extends into, the uterine wall. The placenta may not separate normally after birth, creating a risk of severe bleeding. Suspicion during pregnancy allows delivery to be planned where obstetric, anaesthetic, neonatal, surgical and blood-bank support are available.

Ultrasound is used to assess placental location and features of attachment. Additional imaging may help define anatomy in selected cases, but the specialist team interprets all findings together; imaging cannot always determine the exact depth of attachment before surgery.

Keep specialist imaging and maternity appointments, and make sure the team knows about earlier caesarean births, removal of fibroids, uterine procedures or previous placental problems. Ask for a written plan covering where birth should occur, who will be present, what to do if bleeding or labour starts early, and whether a planned caesarean birth with hysterectomy may be recommended. Do not stop prescribed medicines unless the treating clinician advises it.

Contact maternity care immediately for any vaginal bleeding, contractions, leaking fluid, new abdominal pain, reduced baby movements, dizziness or faintness. Call emergency services for heavy bleeding, collapse, severe weakness or breathing difficulty. Do not drive yourself if you feel faint or are bleeding heavily; tell responders that placenta accreta is suspected and follow your hospital's emergency plan.

Ask which scan findings raise concern, whether the placenta covers a previous scar, where and when the team expects birth to occur, and what alternatives might be considered. Clarify the possibility of hysterectomy, transfusion, intensive care, effects on future fertility, recovery support and how unexpected bleeding will be handled.