Does anterior placenta have an impact on labour?

[PSL1990]

Does anterior placenta make any difference to childbirth? Thanks!

[Pindlesandneedles]

It depends if it’s high or low. If it’s low it can cover the opening to the uterus leading to complications if you were having a vaginal delivery. However if it’s high it won’t be a problem. Both mine were anterior and high and I’ve had two normal vaginal deliveries! If you’re anxious I wonder if it might be worth running past your midwife?

[Littlefrog99]

I had an anterior placenta with my first. The contractions caused my baby to turn back to back meaning it was more painful. And it really was painful. I didn't know until afterwards when I discussed the labour with a doctor. She explained that the position of the placenta can sometimes mean the baby can't get into the normal position but it doesn't usually cause a medical issue per se. I'd recommend an epidural then you won't have to worry about the pain!

[EscapeTheOrdinary]

I don’t think it had any impact on my labour. Baby was in the right position for weeks before. Contractions were felt in my back not my front but it meant my tens machine worked very well!

[albus55]

Didn't have any affect on mine as far as I'm aware! Felt the contractions more in my back than front but think is common. I had a great straightforward natural water birth so no complications.

[Jsh125]

I had an anterior placenta in my first pregnancy & didn't make the slightest bit of difference to labour. Like others have suggested it might be worth discussing any concerns with your midwife since just because i had no issues that doesn't mean there isn't anything which could occur.

[Bb2019]

I had one and it was absolutely fine. Baby was LOA (perfect position for birth). I'd stay active until the very end to ensure the baby has a better chance of not being back to back which is more likely with an anterior placenta. I personally was walking up to 12 km a day the week before birth and doing pre natal Pilates up until the day before labour.