Importance of Understanding the Position of Your Placenta

Embarking on a pregnancy journey is exciting and stressful. The expectant mother must have a clear idea about the placenta’s position. The placenta’s function in the fetus’s development is among its most fascinating aspects. In addition to removing waste, this vital organ makes sure your developing baby gets enough oxygen and nutrition.

It is typical for expectant parents and medical experts to discuss the placental location inside the uterus. The anterior and posterior locations are the most common. To find out how they differ and how both positions can impact your pregnancy, continue reading. 

Two Primary Types of Placental Positions

The development of the placenta happens wherever the implantation of the fertilized eggs occurs in the uterine wall. Anterior placenta refers to the attachment of the placenta to the front wall of the uterus. On the other hand, posterior placenta means it is attached to the rear wall, closest to the spine.

Know that both these positions are healthy and normal. None of the positions of the placenta create any pregnancy-related problems. But, the variation in positions determines the experience of your pregnancy journey.

Sensing Fetal Movements

The fetal movement feelings in the case of the posterior placenta are different from the anterior placental placement.

Perception

The cushioning effect is less when the placenta is at the back. A mother can feel the fetal movements earlier (within 16-18 weeks) and more clearly with the posterior placenta.

The placenta functions as a cushion between the abdominal wall and the baby inside. So, when the placenta is in front, feeling fetal movements may take some time. Mothers with this placental position can sense movements during 20-22 weeks.

Kicks

Women with a posterior placenta can feel clearer and sharper kicks earlier. The reason is the path to the abdominal wall is more direct. When it comes to the front-positioned placenta, the kicks of the growing baby are more muted. The reason includes the natural trait of the placenta to absorb maximum force.

Monitoring

Healthcare professionals have seamless access to the rear wall of the uterus, making it easier for them to monitor and detect the baby’s heartbeat. But, in the case of the placenta’s frontal position, the placental tissue gets in the way, making it difficult for doctors to monitor and locate the heartbeat.

Make sure you quickly contact your doctor when you sense a notable change in the fetus’s movements. Remember that more than the movements’ perception, the pattern and frequency matter.

The mother’s experience of fetal movements and minor considerations for particular medical treatments are important. Those are the main distinctions between a rear-positioned and front-positioned placenta. Both positions are healthy and normal and rarely cause problems for a pregnant woman.

While undergoing an anatomy scan, which usually takes place between weeks 18 and 22, your healthcare professional will determine your placental position. Regardless of whether your placenta is anterior or posterior, it actively performs its life-sustaining function for your unborn child.

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Final Words

Understanding your placental position will help you understand why you may experience movements differently than others. Always make it a priority to consult with a seasoned healthcare provider about any worries you may have.