When an ultrasound shows an anterior placenta, many expectant mothers worry. Is an anterior placenta a problem? Let’s explore this topic with AVAKids’ Pregnancy section to get helpful information!
What is the placenta?
The placenta, a vital organ, is responsible for transferring nutrients and oxygen to the fetus and removing waste products.
Besides that, the placenta also protects the fetus from infection and secretes large amounts of female hormones to help prevent uterine contractions before the due date.
Each pregnant woman will have a different placental position. The most common locations are attached to the upper uterine wall, the left or right side of the uterus, the anterior wall (front), and the posterior wall (back).
You may be interested in: Placenta accreta – A pregnancy condition that pregnant women need to be aware of
What is an anterior placenta?
An anterior placenta is when the placenta attaches to the front wall of the uterus. In some cases, the placenta will attach to the lower part of the uterus, near the lower abdomen; this position is called a low-lying placenta.
Simply put, an anterior placenta is located directly in front of the baby’s head, meaning the baby is behind and the placenta is in front.
The phenomenon of anterior placenta
Does the position of the placenta affect the baby?
Difficult to feel the baby’s movements
An anterior placenta creates a barrier between the baby and the uterus. Therefore, the pregnant woman may not feel the baby’s movements. Even during the second trimester, the mother may not feel the usual fetal kicks.
Difficulty in delivering the baby
If the baby is breech, an anterior placenta can hinder delivery. However, this situation may resolve if the placenta moves to the back by the end of pregnancy.
Medical procedures are hindered
An anterior placenta can interfere with medical procedures. It can make it less convenient for the doctor to listen to the fetal heartbeat. However, it is still possible to determine the baby’s sex normally.
Things pregnant women need to know about anterior placenta
Towards the end of pregnancy, depending on the mother’s health condition, the doctor will recommend a cesarean section or vaginal delivery. However, pregnant women should also pay attention to the following:
- Regular prenatal checkups.
- Limit strenuous activity and overexertion.
- Supplement with plenty of nutrients for a healthy body. You can refer to maternity milk products from reputable brands like Similac, Wadoko, Enfa, Frisomum, etc.
- Get adequate rest and eat appropriately.
- Choose easily digestible foods.
- Eat plenty of fruits, whole grains, oatmeal, and green vegetables.
- Supplement with micronutrients such as iron, folic acid, etc.
An anterior placenta often increases pain and can cause slow labor with discomfort in the lower back during delivery. Therefore, pregnant women need to regularly monitor their health and the baby’s health for a healthy pregnancy!
Mothers need adequate nutrition
Frequently asked questions about anterior placenta
1. Is an anterior placenta good?
An anterior placenta is generally considered safe, but a low-lying placenta can be dangerous for the fetus. This occurs when the placenta attaches to the lower part of the cervix.
When a pregnant woman experiences this, the fetal position can be abnormal, increasing the risk of gestational hypertension leading to fetal distress, which is extremely dangerous. Therefore, depending on the baby’s position, the doctor may recommend an early C-section to ensure the safety of both mother and baby.
2. Is an anterior placenta a sign of a boy or girl?
Folklore suggests that an anterior placenta is often a sign of carrying a girl. However, no studies have proven this to be true. In reality, there are many cases where pregnant women with anterior placentas have given birth to boys and vice versa.
Therefore, the position of the placenta cannot determine the sex of the fetus. However, it is evident that when the placenta is attached to the posterior wall, delivery is often easier than with an anterior placenta.
The sex of the baby cannot be determined based on whether the placenta is anterior or posterior
3. Can I have a vaginal birth with an anterior placenta?
An anterior placenta often makes it difficult for pregnant women to feel the baby kick. However, if the fetus is developing healthily, whether a vaginal or cesarean delivery is recommended depends on many factors, and the doctor will make the decision after regular prenatal checkups.
This AVAKids article has provided expectant mothers with useful information about the phenomenon of anterior placenta. Remember to have regular prenatal checkups, eat healthily, and keep a relaxed mind for a healthy fetal development!
Note: The information above is for reference only and cannot replace medical diagnosis and treatment.