Evaluation of Maternal and Fetal Outcome in Major Degree Placenta Previa and Its Risk Factors for The Last Five Years

Placenta previa is posing a risk of maternal and fetal morbidity and mortality. To manage and intervene properly, understanding the epidemiology, risk factors and outcomes of placenta previa is important. Aim to estimate the incidence of placenta previa; To evaluate some maternal and fetal outcomes associated with placenta previa; To identify some risk factors that increase the likelihood of developing placenta previa. This is a retrospective cohort study in the Basra Maternity and Children Hospital, Iraq. A total of 50 women with major degree placenta previa beyond 28 weeks of gestation were studied from the records of the hospital. These variables comprised of demographic data, obstetric history, clinical presentation, maternal and fetal outcomes and ultrasound findings. The study population had a mean age of 30.2 years. 96% had a history of previous caesarean section of which 70% had 2-4 previous scars. Placenta accreta was diagnosed in 72% of the cases. The majority of births were emergency cesarean section (66%). Among maternal outcomes, 32% suffered postpartum hemorrhage, 48% had a total abdominal hysterectomy, and 24% had bladder injuries. Outcome of fetus showed that 80% of neonates were admitted to NICU, 48% had birth weight less than 2.5 kg and 22% of neonates were dead. Statistically significant relationship was found between adherent placenta and variables including parity, previous scars and emergency cesarean section (p<0.05). Placenta previa is associated with high maternal and fetal morbidity. Risk factors, such as multiparity and history of previous cesarean section, significantly contribute to adverse outcomes.