Placenta Previa
What is Placenta Previa
Placenta previa occurs when the placenta is implanted in the lower segment of the uterus, partly or completely covering the cervix (the opening of the womb).
It is a serious cause of bleeding in pregnancy (usually in 2nd or 3rd trimester).
Causes / Risk Factors
- Previous cesarean delivery.
- Multiple pregnancies (twins, triplets).
- Advanced maternal age.
- Uterine scarring from surgery or infections.
- Smoking.
Symptoms
- Painless vaginal bleeding in 2nd or 3rd trimester.
- Bleeding is usually bright red and recurrent.
- No abdominal pain (unlike abruption).
- Abnormal fetal position (because placenta blocks the cervix).
Complications
- Severe maternal blood loss.
- Preterm delivery.
- Fetal growth restriction.
- Emergency cesarean required in complete previa.
Diagnosis
- Ultrasound scan (USG) – gold standard.
- Physical examination is avoided as it can trigger heavy bleeding.
Homeopathic Perspective
Homeopathy cannot “reposition” the placenta but helps in:
- Controlling bleeding episodes.
- Supporting maternal vitality.
- Preventing complications like anemia.
- Strengthening the constitution for future pregnancies.
Common Homeopathic Medicines
- Sabina: Bright red bleeding, worse from slightest motion.
- Ipecac: Bleeding with constant nausea.
- Secale cornutum: Thin, watery, continuous bleeding in weak, exhausted women.
- Trillium pendulum: Profuse bright bleeding, better by tight binding of abdomen.
- Phosphorus: Bleeding tendency, weakness, anxious feeling.
Emergency Note: If heavy bleeding occurs, immediate hospitalization is mandatory. Homeopathy plays a supportive role, not a replacement for emergency care.
Placental Abruption
Placental abruption is a condition where the placenta separates prematurely from the uterine wall before delivery.
It is a medical emergency and a major cause of maternal and fetal morbidity.
Causes / Risk Factors
- High blood pressure (chronic or preeclampsia).
- Trauma (fall, accident).
- Smoking, alcohol, drug use (cocaine).
- Multiple pregnancies.
- History of previous abruption.
Symptoms
- Painful vaginal bleeding (unlike previa).
- Severe abdominal pain and uterine tenderness.
- Rigid or “board-like” uterus.
- Decreased fetal movement.
- Shock symptoms (pallor, faintness, rapid pulse).
Complications
- Severe maternal hemorrhage → shock.
- Disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC).
- Preterm labor.
- Fetal death (if large separation).
Diagnosis
- Clinical symptoms (pain + bleeding).
- Ultrasound (sometimes fails to show small abruptions).
- Blood tests for clotting and hemoglobin.
Homeopathic Perspective
In acute cases, hospitalization and emergency obstetric care are mandatory.
Homeopathy can help:
- Control bleeding in milder cases.
- Support recovery post-crisis.
- Prevent recurrence in women with history.
Common Homeopathic Medicines
- Hamamelis: Dark venous bleeding with soreness in abdomen.
- Sabina: Active bright bleeding with cramps.
- Crocus sativus: Dark stringy clots, sensation of movement in abdomen.
- China (Cinchona): Profound weakness and faintness after heavy blood loss.
- Arnica: When abruption follows trauma or injury.
Prognosis
- Placenta previa: Homeopathy helps control bleeding episodes and prevent maternal weakness, but cesarean delivery is often needed.
- Placental abruption: Homeopathy supports recovery and reduces recurrence risk, but acute emergency care is lifesaving.
Summary
- Placenta previa → painless bright bleeding, ultrasound diagnosis, managed often with cesarean.
- Placental abruption → painful bleeding with uterine tenderness, medical emergency.
Homeopathy supports in bleeding control, recovery, prevention, but not a substitute for emergency obstetric management.
