Labor and delivery complicated by vasa previa Save

Labor and Delivery Complicated by Vasa Previa

Vasa previa is a rare, but serious, complication that can occur during pregnancy and childbirth. It is a condition in which the fetal blood vessels that are supposed to be protected by the umbilical cord or placenta are instead unprotected and located near the cervix. This can lead to bleeding and other complications during labor and delivery.

If you have been diagnosed with vasa previa, it is important to work closely with your healthcare provider to ensure that you and your baby receive the best possible care. Here are some things you should know:

1. Delivery may need to be planned in advance: If you have vasa previa, your healthcare provider may recommend a planned cesarean delivery (C-section) to reduce the risk of bleeding and other complications during delivery.
2. Monitoring is essential: Your healthcare provider will closely monitor you and your baby throughout pregnancy to check for signs of bleeding or other complications. This may involve more frequent prenatal visits and ultrasounds.
3. Timing of delivery is important: If you are planning a vaginal delivery, it is important to time it carefully to avoid rupturing the fetal blood vessels. This may involve inducing labor early or scheduling a C-section.
4. Blood transfusions may be necessary: In some cases, vasa previa can lead to significant bleeding during delivery. Your healthcare provider may recommend having blood transfusions on standby in case they are needed.
5. Follow-up care is important: After delivery, you and your baby will need close monitoring to ensure that there are no complications. Your healthcare provider may recommend additional testing or follow-up visits to check for any issues.

Overall, vasa previa is a serious condition that requires careful monitoring and planning to ensure the best possible outcome for you and your baby. If you have been diagnosed with vasa previa, it is important to work closely with your healthcare provider to create a delivery plan that is safe and effective.

If you have any questions or concerns about vasa previa or your pregnancy, be sure to talk to your healthcare provider for more information.