An Observational Study of Risk Factors and Fetomaternal Outcomes in Placenta Previa.

Abstract

Placenta previa, a major cause of antepartum hemorrhage, results from abnormal placental implantation over or near the cervical os. It is associated with risk factors such as prior cesarean section, multiparity and advanced maternal age, contributing to significant maternal morbidity and adverse perinatal outcomes. To evaluate the risk factors associated with placenta previa and to assess its maternal and fetal outcomes among affected pregnancies. This cross-sectional study was conducted at Community Based Medical College, Mymensingh, Bangladesh from January 2025 to December 2025, including 35 ultrasound-confirmed placenta previa cases with gestational age >28 weeks. Data on risk factors and fetomaternal outcomes were analyzed using SPSS v27.0, with p<0.05 considered statistically significant. Among 35 cases, multiparity (n=26) (74.29%) and previous cesarean section (n=16) (45.71%) were the leading risk factors. Most cases occurred at 34-37 weeks (n=17) (48.57%). Type 3 placenta previa was most common (n=12) (34.29%). Cesarean delivery predominated (n=32) (91.43%), with 30 live births, 2 intrauterine deaths and 9 NICU admissions. Antepartum hemorrhage was the most frequent complication (n=18) (51.43%), followed by transfusion (n=13) (37.14%). Uterine artery ligation was the most commonly performed procedure (n=26) (74.29%), with hysterectomy in (n=4) (11.43%) cases. Placenta previa causes significant fetomaternal morbidity, mainly linked to multiparity and prior cesarean section. It commonly occurs in the late preterm period with partial and marginal types. Cesarean delivery is preferred, while hemorrhage remains the main complication requiring timely multidisciplinary management.