What to expect from caesarean section for placenta accreta

With placenta accreta, the placenta is attached more deeply to the uterine wall than usual and may not separate safely after the baby is born. Imaging and your pregnancy history help the team plan the operation, although the findings can be clearer during surgery. An obstetric surgeon, anaesthetist, blood-bank team, and newborn specialists may be involved.

The team will explain the intended surgical approach, which can include leaving the placenta undisturbed rather than trying to remove it. In some cases, removal of the uterus is discussed as part of bleeding control and safety. Ask for a clear explanation of options before the planned admission.

Attend specialist appointments and bring your medication and allergy information. Ask when to come in for pain, bleeding, contractions, fluid leakage, or reduced movement. After birth, monitoring may take place in a higher-observation setting. Staff will follow your blood count, urine output, wound, pain, and signs of infection while supporting feeding and contact with your baby.

Recovery may involve restrictions on lifting and driving, particularly if surgery is extensive. Arrange help at home and keep follow-up visits. Emotional support can be valuable when the birth plan includes major surgery or differs from what you expected.

Before birth, report any vaginal bleeding, contractions, fluid leakage, abdominal pain, or reduced fetal movement immediately. After discharge, seek urgent care for heavy bleeding, faintness, severe pain, fever, wound separation or drainage, chest pain, breathing difficulty, or a swollen painful leg. Use the emergency instructions given by your maternity team if symptoms start suddenly.

Ask which specialists will attend, what procedure is planned if the placenta does not separate, how bleeding and transfusion are handled, where you will recover, how fertility may be affected, and what support is available for you and your baby.