Placenta accreta, increta and percreta: what to know

In accreta, the placenta attaches too firmly to the uterine wall. In increta, placental tissue grows into the uterine muscle. In percreta, it grows through the uterus and may involve nearby organs, such as the bladder. The condition may be suspected during pregnancy on ultrasound, although the exact depth is not always clear until delivery. A previous caesarean section or other uterine procedure can be relevant to the assessment, but only your maternity team can interpret your individual risk.

Ask for care from a maternity team experienced with abnormal placental attachment. Planning usually covers the place and timing of birth, blood-loss preparation, anaesthesia, surgical expertise, and newborn support. Do not stop prescribed medicines or change appointments without speaking with your clinician. Depending on the findings and your wishes, the team may discuss a caesarean section followed by removal of the uterus, called a hysterectomy. In selected situations, an approach that leaves the placenta in place may be considered, but it needs close follow-up and has its own risks.

Contact your maternity unit urgently for vaginal bleeding, contractions, fluid leakage, severe or persistent abdominal pain, dizziness, fainting, or reduced fetal movement. Call emergency services for heavy bleeding, collapse, breathing difficulty, or severe weakness. Keep your pregnancy records available and tell staff that placenta accreta spectrum has been suspected or diagnosed.

Ask where your placenta is located, which form is suspected, whether imaging is needed, and which specialists will attend the birth. Ask how a caesarean section and possible hysterectomy would affect recovery, fertility, and future care, and what warning symptoms should prompt immediate assessment.