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Vasa Previa

Fetal vessels coursing close to the cervical os pose a risk of bleeding during delivery.

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 Vasa Previa?

Vasa previa is the course of fetal umbilical vessels through the choriomembranes close to the cervical os while reaching the placental bed. The incidence is 1/2500-5000 pregnancies. Type I is associated with velamentous cord insertion, Type II is seen in bilobed placenta.

Antenatal diagnosis is life-saving. It can be diagnosed by transvaginal Doppler ultrasound between weeks 20-26. Fetal survival reaches 95% with planned cesarean section (week 34-36).

In undiagnosed cases, sudden fetal bleeding develops with vessel rupture at the time of membrane rupture, and fetal mortality is >50%.

Symptoms

Generally asymptomatic in the antenatal period
Sudden, painless vaginal bleeding after membrane rupture
Sudden fetal bradycardia or sinusoidal pattern
Sudden fetal death
Sign of velamentous cord insertion
Bilobed (bilobate) placenta

Risk Factors

IVF pregnancies
Multiple pregnancy
Low-lying placenta or placenta previa
Succenturiate (accessory) lobe
Velamentous cord insertion
Bilobed placenta

When to See a Doctor?

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

  • On screening ultrasound at weeks 20-26 in high-risk pregnancy
  • When abnormal placental structure is detected
  • When sudden painless vaginal bleeding occurs (emergency)
  • On fetal monitoring after membrane rupture
  • For prenatal diagnosis planning

Treatment Methods

01
Antenatal diagnosis and close follow-up
02
Hospitalization at weeks 28-30 (in selected cases)
03
Fetal lung maturation with corticosteroids
04
Planned cesarean section (week 34-36)
05
Emergency cesarean section after membrane rupture
06
Preparation for neonatal resuscitation and blood transfusion

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

Let us help you

You can make an appointment with our specialists or contact us for your concerns.

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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.