Placenta previa is often managed by which delivery method?

• A. Vaginal delivery is always preferred
• B. Induction of labor is recommended
• C. Placenta previa is not relevant to delivery method
• D. Placenta previa often necessitates cesarean delivery

Answer: (D)

Placenta previa changes how delivery is planned because the placenta lies low in the uterus, often covering the cervix. As labor begins and the cervix dilates, the placenta can tear away and cause heavy vaginal bleeding, which can endanger both mother and baby. Because of this risk, the typical approach is to deliver by cesarean section before labor starts, often around late preterm to term depending on bleeding and fetal well-being. Inducing labor or attempting vaginal delivery is generally avoided when previa is present, since it greatly increases the chance of hemorrhage. So, placenta previa often necessitates cesarean delivery.