What should you know about major placenta praevia?

The placenta supplies oxygen and nutrients during pregnancy. In major placenta praevia, it remains in the lower part of the womb and can partly or fully cover the opening of the cervix. As the cervix changes later in pregnancy, placental blood vessels may bleed. Bleeding can begin suddenly and may not cause pain. An ultrasound helps the maternity team check placental position and plan follow-up.

Keep every maternity appointment and tell the team about any bleeding, tightening or pain. Follow personalised advice about activity, travel, sex and where to attend if symptoms start. Keep your maternity notes accessible and discuss the planned hospital, timing of birth and arrangements for urgent assessment. A planned Caesarean Section may be recommended when the placenta still obstructs the birth route. Growth Scan appointments may monitor the baby when the team considers them appropriate.

Contact your maternity unit immediately for any vaginal bleeding, even if it is light, painless or stops. Call emergency services for heavy bleeding, faintness, severe weakness, difficulty breathing, strong abdominal pain or regular contractions. Do not drive yourself if you feel unwell. Use the emergency plan given by your maternity team because bleeding can become serious quickly.

Ask where the placenta is in relation to the cervix, when your next ultrasound is due, which symptoms require immediate attendance, and how the birth plan could change if the placental position changes.