Understanding Placental Lakes and Subchorionic Bleeds: What You Need to Know

Question
At a 13 week ultrasound I had a small placental lake that measured 1.6cmx1.6cmx.9cm.  I had an ultrasound 3 weeks from then (today) at 16 weeks and the size of the placental lake was 1.8cm x4.5cm x1.8cm.  So it got bigger!  My OB said that it is impossible to tell if it is a placental lake or a subchorionic bleed.  However, he says that it is of little significance and most cases it causes no harm.

I am worried as it got bigger?  Is it common for them to get bigger?  Will it keep getting bigger? Is this considered a small or large placental lake?  What are the possible complications because of it?  How do you tell the difference between a SCH and a placental lake?

Thank you so much, I am a worried mother and wanted a pregnancy with no complications! We had gone through infertility treatment to get to this point and I am scared to death that something bad will happen.

Answer
Dear Kristi

I would think that this is a subchorionic heamatoma as placental lakes, in my experience, do not appear that early in pregnancy. Therefore, I advise you to avoid heavy work, household and sexual activities, excercise...etc for the time being and wait for your next ultasound examination to see if things get better. Rest should stop the bleeding into the suchorionic space and make the hematoma smaller.

I do agree with your doctor about the minimal significance of placental lakes late appearing late in pregnancy.

One important thing to be aware of is that emotional stress and worries can have some adverse effects on your health. At the moment and with the findings you described, there is nothing to worry about.

I would like to know your progress and will be happy if u update me with your siyuation.

Good Luck