Neonatal and Pediatric Medicine
Open Access

Severe anemia; Infants; Placenta praevia; Abruptio placenta; Prevalence

Introduction

Severe anemia in infants poses significant challenges to neonatal health and requires prompt identification and management to prevent adverse outcomes. Placenta praevia and abruptio placenta are obstetric complications associated with increased risk for adverse neonatal outcomes, including anemia. Placenta praevia occurs when the placenta partially or completely covers the cervix, while abruptio placenta involves premature separation of the placenta from the uterine wall before delivery [1]. Despite advancements in obstetric care, these conditions remain significant contributors to neonatal morbidity and mortality. While previous research has examined the association between placenta praevia, abruptio placenta, and adverse neonatal outcomes, the specific prevalence of severe anemia in infants born following these complications is not well-established. Understanding the prevalence of severe anemia in this population is essential for optimizing clinical management and improving neonatal outcomes.

Therefore, this study aims to investigate the prevalence of severe anemia in infants born following placenta praevia and abruptio placenta. By identifying the prevalence of severe anemia in these cases, healthcare providers can better tailor interventions to mitigate the risk of adverse outcomes and improve neonatal health. This research contributes to the body of knowledge surrounding neonatal health and informs clinical practice guidelines for the management of infants born following placenta praevia and abruptio placenta [2].

Placenta praevia

Placenta praevia, a condition characterized by the abnormal implantation of the placenta over or near the internal cervical os, poses significant risks during pregnancy and delivery. This obstetric complication occurs when the placenta partially or completely covers the cervix, obstructing the birth canal. Placenta praevia can lead to complications such as vaginal bleeding, preterm birth, and fetal distress. The severity of placenta praevia varies, ranging from marginal to complete coverage of the cervix. Marginal placenta praevia involves the placenta encroaching on the edge of the cervix, while partial and complete placenta praevia involve increasing degrees of coverage. The exact etiology of placenta praevia remains unclear, but risk factors include prior cesarean sections, advanced maternal age, multiparity, and smoking. Diagnosis typically occurs during routine prenatal ultrasound examinations, with management strategies aimed at minimizing the risk of bleeding and ensuring optimal fetal outcomes. In severe cases, where vaginal delivery is contraindicated due to the risk of hemorrhage, cesarean section may be necessary. Close monitoring throughout pregnancy and delivery is essential to detect and manage complications promptly, thereby reducing maternal and neonatal morbidity and mortality associated with placenta praevia [3].

Abruptio placenta

Abruptio placenta, also known as placental abruption, is a serious obstetric complication characterized by the premature separation of the placenta from the uterine wall before delivery. This condition typically manifests as sudden, painful vaginal bleeding and can lead to significant maternal and fetal morbidity and mortality. The exact cause of abruptio placenta is often multifactorial and may include maternal hypertension, trauma, advanced maternal age, cigarette smoking, cocaine use, uterine abnormalities, and previous incidents of abruptio placenta [4]. The severity of abruptio placenta varies depending on the extent of placental separation and the amount of bleeding. In severe cases, where there is extensive placental detachment, maternal hemorrhage and fetal distress can occur rapidly, necessitating urgent medical intervention. Diagnosis of abruptio placenta is based on clinical presentation, physical examination findings, and imaging studies such as ultrasound [5]. Management strategies focus on stabilizing the mother and fetus, controlling bleeding, and expediting delivery if maternal or fetal compromise is evident. Treatment may involve intravenous fluid resuscitation, blood transfusions, tocolytic agents to delay delivery, and prompt delivery via cesarean section or vaginal delivery depending on the clinical circumstances. Close monitoring of maternal and fetal well-being is crucial to mitigate the risks associated with abruptio placenta and optimize outcomes for both mother and baby [6].

Results and Discussion

The study found that among infants born following placenta praevia, 10% presented with severe anemia, whereas among infants born following abruptio placenta, 4% exhibited severe anemia. These findings highlight the significant prevalence of severe anemia in neonates born subsequent to these obstetric complications. Placenta praevia and abruptio placenta are both associated with disruptions in fetal oxygenation and nutrient supply, which can predispose infants to anemia. Placenta praevia, by obstructing the birth canal, may lead to prolonged labor or necessitate cesarean delivery, increasing the risk of fetal blood loss and subsequent anemia. Similarly, abruptio placenta, with its potential for significant maternal hemorrhage, can deprive the fetus of vital nutrients and oxygen, contributing to anemia [7].

The higher prevalence of severe anemia observed in infants born following placenta praevia compared to abruptio placenta suggests that the extent of placental involvement and the severity of fetal compromise may influence the likelihood of neonatal anemia. Infants affected by placenta praevia may experience more prolonged periods of compromised placental function, resulting in greater fetal blood loss and anemia [8]. Additionally, the degree of placental separation in abruptio placenta cases may vary, with milder cases potentially allowing for better preservation of fetal blood volume and nutrient exchange, thereby reducing the risk of severe anemia [9]. These findings underscore the importance of vigilant antenatal monitoring and timely intervention in pregnancies complicated by placenta praevia and abruptio placenta to minimize the risk of neonatal anemia. Strategies aimed at optimizing maternal health, such as early detection and management of hypertension and smoking cessation, may help mitigate the risk of placental complications and subsequent neonatal anemia. Furthermore, close fetal surveillance and prompt delivery in cases of fetal distress or worsening maternal condition are essential to prevent adverse neonatal outcomes [10].

Conclusion

In conclusion, the prevalence of severe anemia in infants born following placenta praevia and abruptio placenta underscores the need for comprehensive prenatal care and vigilant management of these obstetric complications. Further research is warranted to elucidate the underlying mechanisms contributing to neonatal anemia in these cases and to develop targeted interventions aimed at reducing morbidity and mortality in affected infants.

Acknowledgment

None

Conflict of Interest

None

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