Placenta is low, do I need to worry??

[NannyJo]

I've just had my first scan today. I'm 19+ weeks. I was told everything was ok except that the placenta was low and I'd need a further scan at 32 weeks to check it's development. Even though we asked what that meant she wasn't very clear. Can anyone give me any advice???

Nannyjo, as this is a quiet time of night I'll tel you what I think I know, but I hope someone more knowledgeable will be a long soon!
If the placenta is low, it will be monitored because if it stays very low it can obscure the cervix as birth approaches - a condition called placenta prevaeria (sp). This is obviously problematic as it could lead to heamorreage during labour, and a cesearian section is needed. But I think that the position of the placenta can change as the uterus grows, so the likelihood is that it will not be a problem. But that is why they will check at 32 weeks.

Just to reassure you my sister in law was told the same thing as you and everything was normal at the 32 week scan. This is because as her uterus grew the gap between the cervix and the placenta also grew. This isnt always the case but is the most common outcome. If it doesnt move round theres no need to worry but you may be required to have c section.
hope I helped

Thankyou kindly for your replies. I feel slightly reassured that it won't have any immediate effects on carrying my baby now. Thanks again

It depends how low it is.
If it's actually covering the cervix then it unlikely to move up and you will probably need a c section.
If it's just a bit low (as mine was) then it will probably move up as the uterus grows and will not casue you a problem with natural delivery.
Either way it will be confirmed at your 32 week scan (34 in my case so I'm still waiting to know).
The only implication during pregnancy that I know of is that the stretching uterus is more likely to cause small tears and therefore small bleeds - so if you have any spotting this is likely to be ther cause but you should contact your hospital and have them check it out just in case if this does happen.

Nannyjo - I had a low placenta woth DS, and had another scan at 34 weeks, but everything was fine and it moved, but Blu & Sponge are right, if it aint moved then c-section for you.