Which obstetric condition involves the placenta forming in an abnormal location that will not allow normal delivery?

Which obstetric condition involves the placenta forming in an abnormal location that will not allow normal delivery?

• A. Abruptio placentae
• B. Placenta previa
• C. Eclampsia
• D. Preeclampsia

Answer: (B)

Placenta previa is when the placenta implants low in the uterus, covering or lying near the cervix. Because it blocks the cervical opening, normal vaginal delivery isn’t possible and delivery is usually by cesarean section. It typically presents as painless vaginal bleeding later in pregnancy, rather than painful contractions. This contrasts with placental abruption, which involves painful bleeding from premature placental separation and a tender uterus, and with preeclampsia/eclampsia, which are hypertension-related conditions with systemic signs. So the described situation is placenta previa.

Placenta previa is when the placenta implants low in the uterus, covering or lying near the cervix. Because it blocks the cervical opening, normal vaginal delivery isn’t possible and delivery is usually by cesarean section. It typically presents as painless vaginal bleeding later in pregnancy, rather than painful contractions. This contrasts with placental abruption, which involves painful bleeding from premature placental separation and a tender uterus, and with preeclampsia/eclampsia, which are hypertension-related conditions with systemic signs. So the described situation is placenta previa.