What are common risk factors associated with placenta previa?

Placenta previa is a condition characterized by the placenta partially or wholly covering the cervix, which can lead to complications during pregnancy and delivery. Among the risk factors for placenta previa, previous uterine surgery and smoking are indeed significant contributors.

Having undergone previous uterine surgeries, such as cesarean deliveries or surgical interventions for fibroids, increases the likelihood of abnormal placental positioning in subsequent pregnancies. The scarring and potential changes to the uterine structure can impact where the placenta implants. Additionally, smoking is associated with several adverse pregnancy outcomes, including abnormal placentation, as it may affect the vascularization of the uterus and the health of the placenta itself.

While other options mention factors related to pregnancy health, they do not directly correlate with the development of placenta previa as strongly as previous uterine surgery and smoking do. For instance, while obesity and diabetes can lead to complications in pregnancy, they are not as closely linked to placenta previa specifically. Similarly, factors like multiple gestation or advanced maternal age are associated with various other risks in pregnancy but are not primary risk factors for placenta previa. Understanding these nuances is crucial in identifying and managing potential complications during pregnancy.