What it means
Used mainly in two terms. In placenta previapluh-SEN-tuh PREE-vee-uhA placenta that lies low in the uterus and partly or completely covers the opening of the cervix.Full entry , the placenta is attached low in the uterus, over or close to the cervix. In vasa previa, fetal blood vessels run across the membranes over the cervix. Either way, something lies in the path the baby must take at birth.
For the nurse
Bleeding in the second half of pregnancy is reported at once. If previa is known or suspected, no vaginal exams are done, because they can cause heavy bleeding.
Related terms
placenta previa
A placenta that lies low in the uterus and partly or completely covers the opening of the cervix.
presenting part
The part of the fetus that lies closest to the cervix and enters the birth canal first.