Vasa Previa is a rare but serious pregnancy complication that can lead to stillbirth and is a risk to both the mother and the baby. Fortunately, babies with vasa previa have a 98.6% survival rate if they are diagnosed early and closely monitored, and a planned C-section guarantees a safe delivery.
In this blog, let’s understand vasa previa, its causes, symptoms, and treatment options. Read on.
What is Vasa Previa?
During a healthy pregnancy, the baby’s blood vessels are protected within the umbilical cord or placenta. But in vasa previa, some blood vessels pass close to the cervix, ultimately causing the delicate vessels to rupture, especially during labor.
Causes of Vasa Previa
A few common factors that increase the likelihood of vasa previa include :
- Abnormal structural development of the placenta or umbilical cord
- complications might arise with multiple (twin, triplets) Pregnancy
- Low-lying placenta position (Placenta Previa)
- Assisted reproductive techniques like IVF pregnancy.
About the Symptoms of Vasa Previa
One of the most challenging aspects of vasa previa is that it usually doesn’t show any symptoms during pregnancy which is why prenatal screenings are so important. However, if vasa previa is undetected and labor begins naturally, there can be sudden painless vaginal bleeding.
Vaginal bleeding occurs because of the vulnerable blood vessels rupturing, posing a significant risk to the baby. Swift medical attention is essential if any unexpected bleeding occurs during pregnancy, especially if it happens in the later stages.
How is Vasa Previa diagnosed?
Thankfully, modern technology offers practical ways to identify vasa previa before it becomes a threat. A routine ultrasound, typically during the second trimester, can help detect the condition. Sometimes, a color Doppler ultrasound is used to get a clearer view of the blood vessels and their positioning. Early diagnosis allows your obstetrician to plan for a safe delivery and reduces the risk of complications.
Managing and Treating Vasa Previa
Once vasa previa is diagnosed, the focus shifts to safely delivering your baby while avoiding any risks. Vasa previa treatment includes:
- Planned C-Section: Gynecologists generally recommend scheduling a cesarean section (C-section) around the 34th to 36th week of pregnancy to avoid labor and protect the blood vessels.
- Hospital Monitoring: If there’s a risk of preterm labor, you may recommend hospitalization for closer observation.
- Steroid Injections: Corticosteroids might be given around 32 weeks to help your baby’s lungs mature in case early delivery becomes necessary.
It’s important for women dealing with a complex condition like vasa previa to be aware of its risks. With today’s advances in prenatal care, it can be managed effectively to safeguard both mother and child. Early diagnosis and planned labor with the best obstetrician can make even complex pregnancies manageable.
Are you looking for the best gynecologist and obstetrician in Mumbai? Consult Dr. Neelima Mantri; with over 10 years of extensive experience in high-risk obstetrics; she specializes in treating complex pregnancy conditions like vasa previa, prioritizing the safety of mother and baby.
If you’re pregnant and have questions about vasa previa or anything else, meet Dr. Mantri here: https://www.drneelimamantri.com/contact/
