Placenta Previa

A Birth Injury Overview with Baltimore Placenta Previa Lawyer Mark Kopec

Placenta previa is a serious pregnancy complication where the placenta, the organ that nourishes the developing fetus, attaches to the lower part of the uterus, partially or completely covering the cervix. The cervix is the lower, narrow part of the uterus that opens to the vagina during childbirth. If your placenta previa is not managed properly, you may have a birth injury medical malpractice claim and need Baltimore placenta previa lawyer Mark Kopec at the Kopec Law Firm.

Anatomy Overview

• Uterus: The muscular organ that houses and nourishes the developing fetus during pregnancy.
• Cervix: The lower, narrow part of the uterus that connects to the vagina. It dilates (opens) during labor to allow the passage of the baby.
• Placenta: An organ that develops in the uterus during pregnancy. It provides oxygen and nutrients to the fetus and removes waste products.  

Symptoms of Placenta Previa

• Painless vaginal bleeding: This is the most common symptom and can occur at any time during pregnancy, but it’s more likely in the second or third trimester.
• Abdominal pain: In some cases, women with placenta previa may experience mild to moderate abdominal pain.

Types of Placenta Previa

• Total placenta previa: The placenta completely covers the cervical opening.
• Partial placenta previa: The placenta partially covers the cervical opening.  
• Marginal placenta previa: The edge of the placenta reaches the margin of the cervix.

When to See a Doctor

If you experience any vaginal bleeding during pregnancy, even a small amount, contact your doctor or midwife immediately.

Diagnosis

• Pelvic exam: Your doctor will perform a pelvic exam to check for any signs of bleeding or other abnormalities.
• Ultrasound: An ultrasound is the most common and effective way to diagnose placenta previa. It uses sound waves to create images of the baby and the placenta.

Treatment Options

The treatment for placenta previa depends on the severity of the condition, the amount of bleeding, and the gestational age of the fetus.

• Observation and bed rest: In mild cases, your doctor may recommend bed rest and close monitoring for any signs of increased bleeding.
• Cesarean section (C-section): If you experience significant bleeding or if the placenta is completely covering the cervix, a C-section will likely be necessary. C-sections are typically scheduled in advance to minimize the risk of complications, unless it is an emergency situation.

Potential Complications of Untreated Placenta Previa

• Severe bleeding: In some cases, placenta previa can cause severe bleeding, which can be life-threatening for both mother and baby.
• Premature birth: If the bleeding is significant, your doctor may need to deliver the baby early, which can increase the risk of complications for the baby.
• Placental abruption: This is a serious condition where the placenta prematurely separates from the wall of the uterus. Placental abruption can cause severe bleeding and can be life-threatening for both mother and baby.

Medical Malpractice Claims with Baltimore Placenta Previa Lawyer Mark Kopec

• Failure to diagnose: If a doctor misdiagnoses or fails to diagnose placenta previa, it can lead to delays in treatment and increase the risk of bad outcomes.
• Improper management: If a doctor fails to properly manage a case of placenta previa, such as by not recommending bed rest or scheduling a C-section in a timely manner, it can increase the risk of bad outcomes.
• Improper performance of a C-section: If a C-section is performed negligently, it can result in injuries to the mother or the baby.

Next Step: Call Baltimore Placenta Previa Lawyer Mark Kopec

If you believe you may have a medical malpractice claim, it is crucial to consult with an experienced medical malpractice attorney. Visit our free consultation page or video. Then contact the Kopec Law Firm at 800-604-0704 to speak directly with Attorney Mark Kopec. He is a top-rated Baltimore Birth Injury lawyer. The Kopec Law Firm is in Baltimore and pursues birth injury cases throughout Maryland and Washington, D.C.