Delayed Placenta

Return to Menu - Women’s Health Issue

Delayed placenta, also known as retained placenta, is a condition that occurs when the placenta is not expelled from the uterus within a certain period after childbirth. This condition can pose significant health risks to the mother if not managed promptly and effectively.

Causes of Delayed Placenta

There are several potential causes of a delayed placenta, which can be broadly categorized into three types:

1. Uterine Atony: This occurs when the uterus fails to contract adequately after childbirth, preventing the placenta from detaching and being expelled. Uterine atony is often associated with prolonged labor, overdistended uterus, or the use of certain medications during labor.

2. Placenta Adherens: In this case, the placenta remains attached to the uterine wall due to inadequate uterine contractions. This can be caused by factors such as uterine fibroids, previous uterine surgery, or an abnormally shaped uterus.

3. Placenta Accreta: This is a more severe form of retained placenta where the placenta grows too deeply into the uterine wall. It can be associated with previous cesarean sections or other uterine surgeries, which may cause scarring and abnormal placental attachment.

Symptoms of Delayed Placenta

Recognizing the symptoms of a delayed placenta is essential for timely intervention. Some common signs include:

• Failure to deliver the placenta within 30 minutes to an hour after childbirth.
• Excessive bleeding or hemorrhage.
• Severe abdominal pain or cramping.
• A feeling of fullness or pressure in the lower abdomen.
• Signs of infection, such as fever or foul-smelling vaginal discharge.

Risks and Complications

If not addressed promptly, a delayed placenta can lead to several complications, including:

• Postpartum Hemorrhage: This is the most immediate risk associated with a retained placenta. Excessive bleeding can lead to shock and may require blood transfusions or surgical intervention.

• Infection: Retained placental tissue can become a breeding ground for bacteria, leading to uterine infections such as endometritis.

• Fertility Issues: In severe cases, complications from a retained placenta can affect future fertility or lead to the need for a hysterectomy.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosing a delayed placenta typically involves a physical examination and, if necessary, imaging tests such as an ultrasound to confirm the presence of retained placental tissue. Treatment options vary depending on the severity of the condition and may include:

1. Manual Removal: In some cases, a healthcare provider may manually remove the placenta by gently pulling on the umbilical cord while applying pressure to the uterus.

2. Medications: Drugs such as oxytocin may be administered to stimulate uterine contractions and facilitate the expulsion of the placenta.

3. Surgical Intervention: If manual removal and medications are unsuccessful, a surgical procedure known as a dilation and curettage (D&C) may be necessary to remove the retained tissue.

4. Antibiotics: If there is a risk of infection, antibiotics may be prescribed to prevent or treat any bacterial infections.

Prevention and Management

While not all cases of delayed placenta can be prevented, certain measures can reduce the risk:

• Active Management of the Third Stage of Labor: This involves administering uterotonic drugs immediately after the birth of the baby to promote uterine contractions and reduce the risk of retained placenta.

• Monitoring and Early Intervention: Close monitoring of the mother during and after childbirth can help identify and address any issues promptly.

• Education and Awareness: Educating expectant mothers about the signs and symptoms of delayed placenta can empower them to seek timely medical attention.

TREATMENT

• For a delayed placenta you can use angelica root extract (Angelica sinensis). Place a drop under the tongue and drink with a swig of water. This will swiftly bring the placenta.
• Hot basil leaf (Ocimum basilicum) infusion smells and tastes great, as well as producing results. Drink this by the cupful.
• Make a feverfew flower (Tanacetum parthenium) infusion when labor starts by adding four teaspoons of the herb to a quart jar, fill with boiling water and cap. Allow to sit at room temperature for thirty minutes, then refrigerate. This keeps the infusion fresh, in the case of a longer birth. (Source)