Placenta accreta ultrasound

A specialist may examine whether the placenta is low, lies over a womb scar, or appears to extend unusually deep into the womb wall. Doppler ultrasound can assess blood flow patterns around the placenta and nearby tissues. These features can raise or lower concern, but ultrasound cannot always define the full depth or exclude every problem.

The sonographer may use abdominal scanning and, when clinically appropriate, an internal scan to see the cervix and lower placenta more clearly. An internal scan does not mean the placenta is being disturbed. Your maternity team interprets the images alongside your operations, symptoms, and examination.

Bring details of previous Caesarean Section or womb surgery and ask where the placenta is in relation to the cervix and scar. Keep copies of reports if you are referred to a specialist centre. If the scan raises concern, ask when the next review will be and where birth should occur.

Do not wait for a scheduled ultrasound if you have vaginal bleeding, severe abdominal pain, contractions, leaking fluid, faintness, or reduced fetal movement. Contact maternity services urgently; a scan appointment is not a substitute for assessment of new symptoms.

Ask what signs were seen, how confident the team is, whether another scan or specialist imaging is needed, and whether the placenta may involve nearby organs. Ask how the findings change the Caesarean Section plan and whether Hysterectomy should be discussed.