Placenta accreta and caesarean section: what to know

In placenta accreta spectrum, the placenta is attached more deeply than expected. After the baby is born, the placenta may not separate normally. Trying to remove it can open blood vessels in the uterus, so the team plans the birth route and surgical approach around the placenta's position.

A caesarean section may be scheduled before labour begins when the placenta blocks or approaches the cervix, or when accreta is strongly suspected. The exact plan depends on imaging, bleeding, pregnancy progress and previous operations. A suspected diagnosis does not mean every person will have the same operation.

Attend specialist appointments and ask for a written plan covering the hospital, timing, arrival instructions and emergency contact. The hospital may coordinate obstetrics, anaesthesia, surgery, blood-bank support, intensive care and neonatal care. Tell the team about medicines, allergies, prior caesareans and other uterine procedures.

Doctors may recommend leaving the placenta in place rather than pulling it away. They may also discuss hysterectomy after delivery, which removes the uterus and means another pregnancy cannot be carried. Ask about recovery, feeding, support at home and emotional care.

Call your maternity unit immediately for vaginal bleeding, regular contractions, fluid leakage, severe pain or reduced fetal movement. Use emergency services for heavy bleeding, faintness, confusion, severe weakness or difficulty breathing. Follow your hospital's instructions even if symptoms begin before the planned caesarean date.

Ask where the placenta lies, how confident the team is about accreta, why a caesarean is recommended, and what happens if labour or bleeding starts first. Ask whether hysterectomy may be needed, who will be present, and how your recovery will be supported.