The increasing incidence of cesarean sections and maternal age have predisposed more to the incidence of placenta previa in the obstetric population (Ikechebelu & Onwusulu, 2007). Uncomplicated cases of placenta previa should be delivered by elective cesarean section between 36 and 37 weeks. Risk factors for placenta previa reported in the Myles Textbook For Midwives (2014) include history of previous cesarean section, pregnancy loss, advanced maternal age, high parity, previous intrauterine surgery, smoking and multiple pregnancies. Additionally, placenta previa risks developing a small-for-gestational-age placenta. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an Original Essay Ultrasound is the diagnostic modality of choice for diagnosing placenta previa. Severe hemorrhage may occur during surgery during separation of the placenta. In these cases, hysterectomy is considered the treatment of choice even if conservative management has recently been proposed. Despite notable improvements in obstetric management and modern transfusion services, antepartum hemorrhage continues to be a major cause of maternal morbidity and mortality. An accurate diagnosis and timely resuscitation are the first steps in the management of antepartum hemorrhage. Cases of placenta previa and placenta accreta are increasing in number as the cesarean section rate increases. Increased morbidity has been found to be associated with different types of placenta previa, such as complete or partial placenta previa, and is higher than marginal placenta previa or low-lying placenta. Each institution should have a clear plan and structure protocol for the management of massive hemorrhage cases. This precise protocol should be updated regularly and the steps and procedures should be repeated. The main causes of massive obstetric hemorrhage are placenta previa, placental abruption and postpartum hemorrhage. These can cause severe maternal morbidity and mortality if there is a delay in the diagnosis of hypovolemia and coagulation defects. invasive monitoring of heart rate and blood pressure. Other available treatment modalities include the use of oxytocin and prostaglandins to keep the uterus contracted and surgical procedures to stop the bleeding by performing ligation of the uterine, ovarian or internal iliac arteries or radiologically assisted embolization or ultimately hysterectomy when indicated. Please note: This is just an example. Get a custom paper from our expert writers now. Get a Custom Essay In general, further education and exposure on placenta previa with its possible complications should be emphasized for obstetric patients, to ensure proper attitude towards medical advice be administered and compliance with medications in order to achieve optimal care for women with placenta previa. Therefore, efforts to improve knowledge of placenta previa through quality improvement programs are very important in order to prevent avoidable complications such as fetal mortality and maternal death secondary to uncontrolled bleeding...
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