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Antenatal Diagnosis of Vasa Previa

Antenatal recognition of vulnerable foetal vessels and prevention of foetal death.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Kadın Hastalıkları ve Doğum department. Book Appointment →

What is Antenatal Diagnosis of Vasa Previa?

Vasa previa is the condition in which foetal blood vessels traverse the membranes within 2 cm of the internal cervical os without protection from the placenta or umbilical cord. Two main types exist: type I, associated with velamentous cord insertion, and type II, with vessels running between placental lobes (succenturiate or bilobed placenta).

Without antenatal diagnosis, the perinatal mortality rate is approximately 50-60% due to rupture of the vessels with membrane rupture leading to foetal exsanguination. Antenatal screening with high-resolution transvaginal ultrasound and colour Doppler in the second trimester reduces mortality to <3%.

Standard management is hospitalisation at 30-34 weeks, antenatal corticosteroid administration and elective caesarean delivery at 34-36 weeks. Risk groups include in vitro fertilisation, multiple gestation, low-lying placenta and placental anomalies; routine screening should be performed in these patients.

Symptoms

Often asymptomatic (antenatal)
Painless vaginal bleeding (acute)
Foetal heart rate abnormality (sinusoidal pattern)
Detection on ultrasound during routine antenatal screening
Bleeding with membrane rupture
Foetal distress findings

Risk Factors

Velamentous cord insertion
Succenturiate or bilobed placenta
Low-lying placenta or previa
In vitro fertilisation pregnancy
Multiple gestation
Second trimester low placentation

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Painless vaginal bleeding
  • Decreased foetal movements
  • Following membrane rupture
  • Bleeding after sexual intercourse
  • Cervical examination after dilatation
  • Approach to planned delivery date

Treatment Methods

01
Transvaginal ultrasound + colour Doppler (gold standard)
02
Comprehensive screening in risk groups
03
MRI for confirmation in selected cases
04
Hospitalisation at 30-34 weeks
05
Antenatal corticosteroid (24-34 weeks)
06
Elective caesarean delivery at 34-36 weeks
07
Emergency caesarean (membrane rupture/bleeding)
08
Neonatal intensive care preparation

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Kadın Hastalıkları ve Doğum department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Kadın Hastalıkları ve Doğum Department

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.