US Medical Term · maternity
Placenta Previa
Placenta previa
In 9 languages
| Language | Term |
|---|---|
| English | Placenta Previa |
| Spanish (Español) | Placenta previa |
| Chinese (中文) | 前置胎盤 |
| Korean (한국어) | 전치태반 |
| Vietnamese (Tiếng Việt) | Nhau tiền đạo |
| Filipino (Tagalog) | Placenta previa |
| Portuguese (Português) | Placenta prévia |
| Thai (ภาษาไทย) | รกเกาะต่ำ |
| Japanese (日本語) | 前置胎盤 |
What it means
Placenta previa occurs when the placenta — the organ that feeds your baby — lies low in the uterus and partially or completely covers the cervical opening. This can cause painless vaginal bleeding, especially in the third trimester. If the placenta remains over the cervix close to your due date, a vaginal birth is not safe, and a cesarean delivery will be planned. Placenta previa is usually identified on a routine ultrasound. Your provider will likely advise pelvic rest (no sex, no vaginal exams) and may restrict activity. Bleeding that is heavy or doesn't stop is a medical emergency.
How to say it
Sentences a patient might use with a doctor, nurse, pharmacist, or insurer:
My ultrasound showed a low-lying placenta — does that mean I have placenta previa?
Mi ultrasonido mostró una placenta baja — ¿eso significa que tengo placenta previa?
If I have placenta previa, will I definitely need a C-section?
Si tengo placenta previa, ¿definitivamente necesitaré una cesárea?
I had painless bleeding — could this be from placenta previa?
Tuve sangrado sin dolor — ¿podría ser por placenta previa?
Where you'll see it
Related ICD-10-CM category
O44 Placenta previaRelated terms
Sources
Last reviewed: September 2026