Does caesarean section treat placenta praevia?

Placenta praevia means the placenta is low in the womb and may cover or approach the cervix. As pregnancy progresses, its relationship to the cervix can change, so ultrasound findings guide the plan. If the placenta remains over the birth passage, vaginal birth may cause heavy bleeding. A caesarean avoids passing the baby through the area beneath the placenta, although bleeding can still occur.

Attend follow-up scans and ask your maternity team about the placenta’s position, activity restrictions, and the planned place of birth. Tell them promptly about any bleeding, even if it stops. Keep your hospital plan ready and avoid vaginal examinations unless a clinician has assessed you and recommends one.

Go to urgent maternity care for any vaginal bleeding, painful tightening, abdominal pain, dizziness, fainting, or reduced baby movements. Use emergency services if bleeding is heavy, you feel faint, or you cannot travel safely. Do not wait for a scheduled scan when these symptoms occur.

Ask whether the placenta covers the cervix, when its position will be checked again, when delivery is recommended, and how the team will prepare for possible bleeding.