Risk Factors and Outcomes of Placenta Previa among Admitted Pregnant Women in Benghazi Medical Centre: A Cross-Sectional study

Abstract

Placenta previa is a problem during pregnancy when the placenta completely or partially covers the opening of the uterus (cervix). Placenta previa means the placenta has implanted at the bottom of the uterus, over the cervix, or close by, which means the baby can’t be born vaginally. The placenta is an organ that develops in the uterus during pregnancy. In most pregnancies, the placenta attaches to the top or side of the uterus. In placenta previa, the placenta attaches low in the uterus. The study aims to assess the risk factors for placenta previa and feto-maternal outcomes. A retrospective cross-sectional study included all pregnant women with placenta previa who were admitted to Benghazi Medical Center from 1^st of Jan. 2020 to 31^st of Dec., 2021 (two-year period). A total of 188 files of cases with a diagnosis of placenta previa were reviewed. Grand multigravida showed higher rates of emergency caesarean section.  Higher rates of hysterectomy, higher rates of bladder injury with marginal significance, and higher rates of prematurity. A history of two or more previous sections increases the risk of blood transfusion, fresh frozen plasma use, bladder injury, and hysterectomy. Maternal age does not appear to affect maternal outcomes. In terms of perinatal outcomes, maternal age, gravidity, and history of prior sections have no effect; however, a history of two or more prior scars is associated with a higher rate of prematurity. Grand multigravida women also had higher rates of emergency caesarean sections, hysterectomy, and bladder injury.