Placenta previa is a condition where your placenta settles low in your uterus and covers part or all of your cervix. Your cervix is the pathway through which your baby is born, and that area should ideally be free and unblocked.

You might not notice any symptoms when the placenta lies too close to the cervix. However, its position alone puts you at an increased risk of bleeding as your pregnancy advances.



Types of Placenta Previa

• Complete Previa: The placenta blankets the entire cervix
• Partial Previa: The placenta partially covers the opening
• Marginal Previa: The placenta lies very close to the cervix but does not cover it completely

It affects about 1 in 200 pregnancies, so while not very common, you are certainly not alone in experiencing it.



Why Does Placenta Previa Cause Painless Bleeding? 1. Cervical changes may cause bleeding

As you progress into the second and third trimesters, your cervix naturally begins preparing for birth. It may soften, thin, or open slightly.

If your placenta is lying over this area, even small cervical adjustments can disturb tiny blood vessels.

These vessels are part of the placenta, not your uterus. For this reason, bleeding can occur with no physical discomfort.

2. The placenta has no pain nerves.

Your placenta does not contain pain receptors. So if a small part of it detaches from the wall of the uterus, you will bleed, but you won't feel pain from the detachment itself.

This is in contrast to conditions such as placental abruption, in which bleeding is usually severe and painful, since deeper uterine tissues are involved in the detachment.

3. Ordinary activity may precipitate bleeding

When the placenta lies low, the lower part of the uterus is highly sensitive.

Simple actions may sometimes cause bleeding, including:

• Standing for long periods
• Sexual intercourse
• Travelling on uneven or bumpy roads
• Heavy lifting or sudden movements

Such activities could cause slight, transient pressure changes around the cervix.

Please consult your doctor before making changes to your daily routine.



Symptoms You Should Look Out ForThe most common sign of placenta previa is bright red, painless vaginal bleeding.

You may notice:

• Bleeding after intercourse
• Bleeding after a busy or physically demanding day
• Intermittent bleeding over a period of weeks

Although not everyone has the same pattern, any type of bleeding should be checked by your doctor to ensure safety.



When to Seek Immediate Care?You should seek urgent treatment in a hospital or contact your doctor if you develop:

• Heavy bleeding that soaks a pad within an hour
• Bleeding that does not stop
• Feeling faint, dizzy, or unusually weak
• Reduced movements of the baby
• Any bleeding after 28 weeks

How Placenta Previa Is DiagnoseYour doctor usually detects placenta previa with an ultrasound scan, often during the mid-pregnancy scan at 18–20 weeks.

If it is low at this stage, there is no cause to worry. In most cases, it moves upwards as your uterus expands. About 90% of them shift upward naturally by the time you get to the third trimester.

A transvaginal ultrasound may be advised later to confirm that the placenta remains low. This scan is safe for you and your baby.



Managing Painless Bleeding at HomeOnce the diagnosis of placenta previa is made, your doctor may recommend changes in your daily activities to minimise the risk of additional bleeding.

Common recommendations include:

• Avoid heavy lifting
• Sexual abstinence
• Hydration
• Taking extra rest, especially if bleeding has occurred more than once
• Monitoring your baby's movements daily
• Following pelvic rest, meaning avoiding anything inserted into the vagina unless medically necessary

These steps reduce stress on the lower uterus and prevent irritation of the placental blood vessels.



Practical Precautions to Help You Feel SaferSmall, consistent precautions can be surprisingly empowering, making you feel more prepared and in control.

Daily habits to support your health

• Monitor all bleeding episodes
• Keep emergency contact information handy
• Plan for shorter work hours or frequent breaks
• Sleep on your left side to support better blood flow
• Avoid sudden physical exertion
• Stick to a calm routine as much as possible

Conversations to have with your partner or family

• How can they support you by doing some heavy jobs for you?
• What to do if bleeding suddenly occurs?
• How can they help reduce stress with their emotional support?

Pregnancy is both a physical and emotional experience. Having those around you who understand what you are going through can make a significant difference.



What If Placenta Previa Continues Until Delivery?If, after 32–36 weeks, the placenta still covers or lies close to the cervix, your doctor may advise a planned caesarean section. This is because a vaginal delivery could cause heavy bleeding if the placenta obstructs the birth canal.

It is usually safer for you and your baby to have a planned caesarean. With the right monitoring and planning, many individuals with placenta previa go on to have smooth deliveries and healthy babies.

Placenta previa might sound like a scary condition, especially as one will notice bleeding without pain. This, however, is a typical pattern for this condition. With early diagnosis, careful monitoring, and minor lifestyle changes, you can safely proceed.

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FAQs On Why Placenta Previa Sometimes Causes Painless Bleeding?

Can Placenta Previa go away on its own?

Yes. When placenta previa is identified early, the placenta often moves upward as the uterus grows. This is especially common before the third trimester.

Can placenta previa cause discomfort even without bleeding?

Some women feel pelvic pressure or a heavy sensation, especially later in pregnancy. This doesn’t always mean a complication, but it’s worth mentioning at your checkup

Is painless bleeding always a sign of Placenta Previa?

No. Cervical changes, infections, or small polyps can also cause painless bleeding. It is always safest to get checked to understand the exact cause.