Which statement correctly describes placenta previa?

Which statement correctly describes placenta previa?

• A. The placenta is implanted in the lower uterine segment
• B. The greatest risk is chronic hypertension
• C. There are two placentas attached to the fetus
• D. The placenta is abnormally small

Answer: (A)

Placenta previa is defined by the placenta implanting in the lower uterine segment, often near or over the cervical os. That placement is what makes the placenta previa description correct: the placenta lies in a position that can cover or crowd the cervix, rather than being high up in the fundus. This abnormal location leads to episodes of painless vaginal bleeding later in pregnancy and creates a scenario where vaginal delivery is dangerous due to the risk of heavy bleeding during labor, so cesarean delivery is usually planned. The other statements don’t fit placenta previa. Chronic hypertension isn’t the defining association for previa. Having two placentas attached to the fetus describes a different placental arrangement, not previa. An abnormally small placenta points to placental insufficiency or growth restriction, not previa.

Placenta previa is defined by the placenta implanting in the lower uterine segment, often near or over the cervical os. That placement is what makes the placenta previa description correct: the placenta lies in a position that can cover or crowd the cervix, rather than being high up in the fundus. This abnormal location leads to episodes of painless vaginal bleeding later in pregnancy and creates a scenario where vaginal delivery is dangerous due to the risk of heavy bleeding during labor, so cesarean delivery is usually planned.

The other statements don’t fit placenta previa. Chronic hypertension isn’t the defining association for previa. Having two placentas attached to the fetus describes a different placental arrangement, not previa. An abnormally small placenta points to placental insufficiency or growth restriction, not previa.