What is Retained Placenta?
Retained placenta is a condition where the placenta or fragments of the placenta remain in the uterus after childbirth. This can lead to various complications, including severe bleeding and infection. It typically occurs when the placenta is not expelled within 30 minutes of the baby’s delivery.
Causes of Retained Placenta
There are several factors that can contribute to the occurrence of retained placenta: Uterine Atony: The uterus fails to contract strongly enough to expel the placenta.
Placenta Accreta: The placenta attaches too deeply into the uterine wall.
Trapped Placenta: The placenta detaches from the uterus but gets trapped behind a closed cervix.
Placenta Adherens: The placenta adheres to the uterine wall.
Symptoms and Diagnosis
Symptoms of retained placenta may include: Heavy bleeding after delivery (postpartum hemorrhage)
Severe abdominal pain
Fever and chills indicating infection
Foul-smelling vaginal discharge
Diagnosis is often made through physical examination, ultrasound, or manual exploration of the uterus.
Complications Associated with Retained Placenta
Retained placenta can lead to several serious complications, such as: Postpartum Hemorrhage: Excessive bleeding can occur, leading to shock and potentially requiring a blood transfusion.
Infection: Retained placenta can become a source of infection, leading to endometritis or sepsis.
Subinvolution of the Uterus: The uterus does not return to its normal size, causing prolonged bleeding.
Treatment Options
The treatment for retained placenta depends on the severity of the condition and the underlying cause. Common treatments include: Manual Removal: A healthcare provider may manually remove the placenta through the vagina.
Medications: Drugs such as oxytocin may be administered to help the uterus contract and expel the placenta.
Surgical Intervention: In some cases, a procedure called dilation and curettage (D&C) may be necessary to remove the retained placenta.
Antibiotics: If an infection is present, antibiotics will be required.
Prevention Strategies
While it may not always be possible to prevent retained placenta, certain strategies can reduce the risk: Adequate prenatal care to monitor for risk factors
Active management of the third stage of labor, including the use of uterotonic drugs
Avoiding excessive traction on the umbilical cord
Post-Treatment Care and Follow-Up
After treatment for retained placenta, follow-up care is essential to ensure complete recovery. This may include: Regular monitoring of bleeding and other symptoms
Follow-up ultrasound to confirm complete removal
Continued use of medications if prescribed
Consultation with a gynecologist for ongoing concerns
Retained placenta is a serious condition that requires prompt medical attention. Understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatment options can help in managing and preventing complications associated with this condition.
