Placenta Accreta

Trust the experts at Banner Health to care for you and your baby. Our maternal-fetal medicine specialists, nurses and care teams support you every step of the way. If placenta accreta is suspected or diagnosed, we help you understand your options and deliver care that puts your safety first. 

What is placenta accreta in pregnancy? 

Placenta accreta is a high-risk pregnancy condition. It happens when the placenta grows too deeply into the uterine wall. Because of this, the placenta may not detach after delivery. This can cause heavy bleeding for the mother during childbirth. 

Placenta accreta is part of a group of conditions called the placenta accreta spectrum, which includes: 

• Placenta increta: placenta grows further into the uterine muscle 
• Placenta percreta: placenta grows through the uterus and sometimes into nearby organs 

What causes placenta accreta? 

The exact cause is unknown. However, placenta accreta is more common in women with: 

• Previous uterine surgery such as a C-section 
• Scarring from procedures like dilation and curettage (D&C) 

Changes in the uterus and blood vessels from past pregnancies may also play a role. 

Who is at higher risk for placenta accreta? 

Risk factors can include: 

• Age 35 or older 
• Multiple previous pregnancies 
• One or more prior C-sections 
• Placenta previa (low-lying placenta) 
• Scarring from uterine surgery 

Share your full medical history with your provider, especially if you have one or more risk factors. 

Signs and symptoms of placenta accreta to watch for 

Placenta accreta does not usually cause symptoms. It may be found during a routine ultrasound. Heavy bleeding in the third trimester can be a sign of this condition and needs immediate attention. 

How placenta accreta is diagnosed 

Your doctor may recommend: 

• Ultrasound to check the placenta position and attachment 
• MRI for a clearer picture of how deeply the placenta has grown 
• Blood tests including alpha-fetoprotein levels 

Early diagnosis helps plan for the safest delivery. 

Treatment and delivery options for placenta accreta 

Care focuses on protecting the health of both mother and baby. Treatment may include: 

• Planned C-section delivery 
• Hysterectomy (removal of the uterus) with the placenta left attached. This is the safest option for most women and prevents severe bleeding.

If you would like future pregnancies, talk with your specialist about all risks. More follow-up care would be needed if the uterus is preserved. 

Many patients will deliver early and will have care teams ready for both surgical needs and newborn care, including NICU support if needed. 

Possible complications and emotional support 

Placenta accreta can be overwhelming. It may affect: 

• Birth plans and timing 
• Fertility after treatment 
• Emotional health and stress levels 

Our team is here to support you with education, counseling referrals and follow-up care. 

Why choose Banner Health for placenta accreta care 

• Access to maternal-fetal medicine experts experienced in high-risk pregnancy 
• Advanced prenatal imaging and delivery planning 
• Seamless coordination with neonatal intensive care teams 
• Support for your physical and emotional wellbeing throughout your pregnancy 

You are not alone on this journey. We are here to guide and support you every step of the way. 

Get care for placenta accreta 

If you have risk factors or concerns, talk with your doctor right away. Early planning can help protect you and your baby.