Evaluation of Risk Factors and Fetomaternal Outcomes in Cases of Placenta Previa in a Tertiary Care Hospital in Dhaka

Open Access

Abstract

Background: Placenta previa is a major cause of antepartum hemorrhage and a significant contributor to maternal and neonatal morbidity and mortality, particularly in settings with high cesarean delivery rates. Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the risk factors and fetomaternal outcomes among women with placenta previa in a tertiary care hospital in Dhaka. Methods & Materials: This cross-sectional observational study was conducted at the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shaheed Suhrawardy Medical College Hospital, Dhaka, Bangladesh, from July 2024 to June 2025. A total of 100 pregnant women with ultrasonographically confirmed placenta previa were enrolled in this study. Data on demographic and obstetric characteristics, maternal and neonatal outcomes were collected. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 25.0. Results: Most participants were aged 31–40 years (53%). A history of ≥2 cesarean sections was present in 45% of the patients. Complete placenta previa was observed in 82% of cases. Preterm delivery occurred in 65%, postpartum hemorrhage in 59% and blood transfusion was required in 76%. Peripartum hysterectomy was performed in 25% of women and was significantly associated with the placenta accreta spectrum disorder (p<0.001). Low birth weight was noted in 63% of neonates and NICU admission was required in 34% of them. Conclusion: Placenta previa is associated with substantial fetomaternal morbidity and mortality, particularly in women with a history of cesarean delivery. Early identification of high-risk cases and multidisciplinary management are essential for optimizing patient outcomes.