Placenta Accreta Spectrum
What is Placenta Accreta Spectrum?
Placenta Accreta Spectrum is a pregnancy complication that can occur when the placenta grows into scar tissue from a prior uterine surgery. This condition is most common in people who have had a cesarean section (C-section) but can also occur in patients who have previously had other uterine surgeries such as a myomectomy (fibroid removal). A placenta accreta may mean that at delivery, your placenta does not detach from your uterine wall and cause significant bleeding. In some cases, a hysterectomy may be indicated at the time of delivery
How is it Diagnosed
Placenta accreta is often diagnosed during a second trimester ultrasound. Your obstetrics provider may also refer you to a placenta accreta specialist if you have history of a uterine scar and a placenta that is low lying or in front of your cervix to assess your risk of developing a placenta accreta. If there is ultrasound evidence of your placenta growing into your uterus, your care team may order more frequent or different types of imaging.
Risk Factors
- Asherman Syndrome
- Low-lying Placenta
- Placenta Previa
- Prior Cesarean Delivery
- Prior Myomectomy
Who We Are
Our team is made up of maternal fetal medicine surgeons who will meet with you during pregnancy, assess the risk of your condition and make a plan for the safest delivery for you and your baby.
If your diagnosis of placenta accreta is confirmed, it will be recommended to delivery at UNC Medical Center in Chapel Hill.