QuestionI am 17 weeks and was told today that my anatomy ultra sounds shows
circumvillate placenta???? I asked my dr she said dont worry that they will
check again at 32 weeks? And it could go away?? My question is could it
possibly go away? Has antone else had this and how were there outcomes?
What should i watch out for? Can i still work out or is that to risky?? Please
help I am so excited its a boy this time i have 2 girls and now i am worried i
can loose him!!!!!!
AnswerDear Andrea,
First, 17 weeks is pretty early to have a diagnosed circumvallate placenta. Ultrasounds and sonographers are becoming much more advanced in diagnostics, however I would almost wonder if this is simply a low-lying placenta which is over the cervix. In that scenario, there is a good possibility that the placenta will move up and around - and out of the way - as the uterus grows.
Actual circumvallate placenta is associated with an increased risk of prematurity, prenatal bleeding, placental abruption, multiparity (multiple births), and early fluid loss. The placenta's characteristic's are a thick ring of membranes on the fetal surface and typically the edges are elevated or curled up rather than firmly attached the the uterine surface. This is what poses the increased risk for an abruption and also limits the expansion of blood vessels. This can limit the nutritional supply to the fetus (there is a smaller surface area of placenta attached to the uterine wall).
Circumvallate placenta occurs in 1-2% of pregnancies. Also, it is generally concluded that placentae with more than 50% circumvallation are associated with prematurity and under-weight, as well as a placenta with fewer cells than normal. So, simply put, the grade or severity of the circumvallance will have quite a bit to do with the risks.
The encouraging news is that they have already noted the potential diagnosis for you. That means they will be watching for signs and so will you. You and your doctors will be more vigilant in the care and watchfulness of your pregnancy and this can only be a positive for the outcome. More often than not, it is when this goes undiagnosed (which happens because it is often diagnosed AFTER delivery upon physical examination of the placenta) and doctors are caught unaware, that the poorer outcomes occur.
Right now, you really just need to note any cramping and/or vaginal bleeding. If that were to begin, you should let your doctor know right away. As far as exercising or working out, I can find no data regarding that specifically. Moderate, low-impact exercise is probably fine, but I would encourage you to ask your doctor about that in regard to your individual case.
I hope this has helped you and answered your question. I wish you well and a Happy New Year.
Brenda
