With a vasa previa not associated with abnormal placental implantation (some form of placental previa) there should be no increase in third trimester bleeding. Bleeding from a vasa previa only occurs if the vessel is torn or ruptures. No. There is nothing that we actively do to stop bleeding from a placenta previa. Bleeding from a placenta previa occurs because the attachment of the placenta to the uterus breaks (peels off).

The theory about this that makes most sense is called Trophotropism. The easiest way to explain this is to make a comparison to a plant. A plant will lean towards the sun to get the light it needs to survive. Since the lower segment of the uterus is not as nourishing as the upper segment, the placenta will grow to reach more nourishing tissue. The placental mass will erode away from the cervix, but the vessels can't. This also explains the velamentous insertion of the cord.

Possibly. Unlike a placenta previa the vessels involved in a vasa previa are unlikely to erode away (which is how a placenta previa seemingly "moves"). There is a chance that this vessel will become thrombosed (plugged). This would take away the risk of fetal bleeding, but whether the baby would tolerate this depends on what proportion of the blood flows through this vessel.

Most likely the transverse lie is related to the low-lying placenta. When the placenta occupies the lower portion of the uterus, it prevents the head from engaging (going into the lower segment of the uterus, and the pelvis). Therefore, the baby may not be head first. The position of the vasa previa baby may also reflect an attempt by the baby to avoid compression of the velamentous vessels.

Vasa previa does have an association with a low-lying placenta, which may be associated with previous uterine surgery including prior cesarean, maternal smoking, multiple pregnancy (twins, triplets, etc), and also with assisted conception (artificial insemination, in-vitro fertilization, etc).

Published data on vasa previa mortality shows a rate of 30-100%. Data suggests that survival is practically 100% if the diagnosis of vasa previa is made prenatally, and the patient is delivered by elective cesarean section. We have 2 prenatally diagnosed babies on record that died. However, they died of other complications of pregnancy such as prematurity and placenta previa. Vasa previa can be diagnosed prenatally. The time has come when physicians should look actively for it.

Yes, velamentous cord insertion is also dangerous when the unprotected blood vessels are not crossing the cervix.

The answer to this is unknown. There are no lifestyle changes that affect the incidence of vasa previa. However, vasa previa does have an association with a low-lying placenta, which may be associated with prior cesarean, maternal smoking, multiple pregnancy, and also with assisted conception.

Though it is common to deliver with a VCI without detriment to the baby, VCI carries risk even when not a vasa previa. VCI may be allowed a trial of labor if the vessels are away from the cervix. However, close continuous monitoring is mandatory. The vessels could rupture, and also pressure on the vessels could lead to fetal compromise. This can be detected early by monitoring.

If you have just started flossing you may find your gums bleed a little at first. If the bleeding persists or is accompanied by pain or swelling, visit your dentist/oral hygienist immediately for a professional scale and polish. Using GUM® Paroex Alhohol-Free Mouthrinse mouthwash with anti-bacterial agents will also help.

Most women experience some degree of fatigue, nausea, and breast tenderness during the first trimester of pregnancy. Other symptoms can include constipation, a pulling sensation on the sides in the lower abdomen, and cramps.

In printing, a spreading of pigment beyond the design outline or the appearance of one color through another.

There are always options for heavy uterine bleeding. These do not have to include hysterectomy. Dr. Levey is a national expert in the management of abnormal uterine bleeding and can work with you to find the safest and best medical or surgical option.

Even though you did not delivery vaginally, you will still experience some significant vaginal bleeding as part of your recovery. This is called lochia. The question of how much is too much is one which plagues many recovering moms. Most women will bleed heavily for at least the first two weeks of their recovery - but if you experience so much bleeding that you must change your pads every hour or pass a clot larger than a golf ball, then you should contact your doctor immediately.

No, not necessarily. If she is clinically stable, then wait till 18-20 weeks to decide. See details (WORD 46k)

Yes, you can miss up to two trimesters and remain an active student, but you must complete a course in your Program in the third trimester to remain active. If you become inactive you must reapply to WMTI.

Many people have eczema (atopic dermatitis). It is a very common problem in the United States. In fact, eczema is the most common skin problem in children under the age of 12. Children with a parent, grandparent, brother, sister, aunt, or uncle who have or have had eczema, asthma, or hay fever often have eczema themselves. But even people who don't have these conditions in their families can develop eczema too. Eczema appears most often in early childhood.