When is growth scan recommended for placenta praevia?

Placenta praevia describes a placenta that lies close to or covers the cervix. Ultrasound can show placental location, fetal growth, amniotic fluid and, when needed, blood flow. The placenta may appear to move farther from the cervix as the uterus grows, so follow-up imaging is planned according to the earlier scan and your symptoms. A growth scan is different from a scan focused mainly on locating the placenta, although the same appointment may assess both.

Attend the scans and antenatal reviews arranged for you, and tell your maternity team about any bleeding, pain or contractions. Follow individual advice about activity, intercourse and travel because restrictions depend on your bleeding history and placental location. Ask how the scan findings affect birth planning and where you should go if symptoms begin.

Go to your maternity unit urgently for any vaginal bleeding during pregnancy, even if it is light or painless. Seek immediate care for contractions, severe abdominal pain, dizziness or fainting, or reduced fetal movements. Use emergency services if bleeding is heavy or you feel seriously unwell, rather than waiting for a scheduled ultrasound.

Ask whether your placenta is close to or covering the cervix, what the growth scan will measure, and when placental position will be reviewed again. Confirm the hospital contact route for bleeding and whether your birth plan may change after the next scan.