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When you attend your routine ultrasound appointments during pregnancy, it’s completely normal to experience a mix of emotions. The anticipation of seeing your baby—no matter how alien-like it may appear—is thrilling. Watching your little one wriggle around can be a delightful experience, especially while dealing with various pregnancy symptoms like heartburn and food aversions. However, the uncertainty can also bring about feelings of anxiety, as the ultrasound doesn’t allow for any tidying up of the fetus or placenta. Sometimes, the result is an anterior placenta. Here’s what you need to know about it.
What Is an Anterior Placenta?
An anterior placenta is one that is located at the front of the uterus, close to the abdominal wall. The placenta attaches where the fertilized egg implants, typically on the upper side of the uterus. An anterior placement is fairly common and usually not a cause for concern. It’s important to note that the placenta may shift during pregnancy, so having an anterior placenta at the start doesn’t guarantee it will remain there throughout.
Most individuals discover they have an anterior placenta during their 20-week ultrasound, as explained by the National Institutes of Health (NIH).
Understanding Placental Grading
Plaental grading refers to the classification of how the placenta matures throughout pregnancy, based on factors such as calcification and gestational age. Here’s a breakdown of the grades:
- Grade 0: Less than 18 weeks (early pregnancy)
- Grade 1: 18 to 29 weeks (the placenta is primarily in the upper part of the uterus)
- Grade 2: 30 to 39 weeks (the placenta has extended toward the cervix but does not cover it)
- Grade 3: Beyond 39 weeks (the placenta partially covers the cervix)
Risks Associated with Anterior Placenta
While having an anterior placenta is typically not a concern, it does come with some risks, including:
- Pregnancy-induced hypertension
- Gestational diabetes
- Placental abruption
- Back labor
- Cesarean delivery
- Intrauterine growth restriction
- Induction of labor
- Placenta previa
- Postpartum complications
Feeling Baby Movement
The anterior placement of the placenta may make it more challenging to feel your baby’s movements. Most expectant parents begin to feel kicks between 18 and 24 weeks, but those with an anterior placenta might notice a delay in feeling these movements. Even as the baby grows and kicks stronger, the movements may feel less intense compared to those with other placental positions.
Delivery Options with Anterior Placenta
Yes, normal delivery is entirely possible with an anterior placenta. In most situations, this placental position does not affect labor or delivery. Vaginal births are generally feasible, unless the placenta is blocking the cervix, which could lead to complications. Cesarean sections are also an option unless the anterior placenta is situated lower in the uterus, in which case your healthcare provider will utilize an ultrasound to determine the safest surgical approach.
Does Anterior Placenta Influence Baby’s Gender?
There’s a common belief that having an anterior placenta increases the likelihood of having a girl. While a 2014 study indicated that over 70% of mothers with girls had anterior placentas, more research is necessary to confirm any direct correlation. Thus, having an anterior placenta does not mean you’re guaranteed to have a girl. For accurate gender determination, an ultrasound or blood test is the best method.
Sleep Position with Anterior Placenta
For those with an anterior placenta, the optimal sleeping position is on your left side with knees bent. This position aids in nutrient supply to the baby and reduces pressure on the liver. Interestingly, one study suggested that a mother’s sleeping position during conception could influence where the placenta implants itself.
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Summary
Having an anterior placenta is generally common and not something to worry about. While it can present certain risks and may affect how you feel your baby move, it rarely impacts delivery options. Understanding the implications and associated risks can help ease any concerns during your pregnancy journey.