Placenta accreta spectrum
When a baby is born, the placenta normally detaches easily from the uterine wall. With placenta accreta spectrum, however, the placenta has either grown too deeply into the muscle or through to a nearby organ, causing all or part of the placenta to remain attached. This can cause heavy bleeding after the birth, which can create a potentially life-threatening situation for the mother.
Our specialists at UF Health Maternal and Fetal Medicine in Jacksonville are renowned in the area for diagnosing and treating placenta accreta spectrum pregnancies and work with our highly trained gynecologic surgeons to care for you and your baby.
Placenta accreta spectrum: What you need to know
- The risk for developing placenta accreta increases with age and the number of cesarean sections, pregnancies or uterine surgeries you have had.
- There are often no symptoms, though some women may experience vaginal bleeding during the third trimester.
- Your OB-GYN physician may be able to detect placenta accreta spectrum during the pregnancy with a prenatal ultrasound. This allows time to consult with a high-risk pregnancy specialist who can create a treatment plan to prevent complications.
- Treatment usually includes a C-section. If the placenta has grown deeply into the uterine wall, a hysterectomy may also be necessary to prevent extensive blood loss.
Why choose UF Health Jacksonville?
- Our specialists are ready to help. We have a great deal of experience with placenta accreta spectrum pregnancies.
- The maternal-fetal medicine team will help create a comprehensive care plan including our gynecologic oncology surgeons and urology if needed and will closely monitor your pregnancy to keep you and your baby safe.
- We will work with you and your primary OB-GYN to create a management plan for the likely possibility of a preterm birth.
- Our fetal-maternal team has access to the latest research-based techniques to minimize your complications and provide the best possible outcome.
