Definitions

A condition that occurs in approximately 0.3% to 0.5% of pregnancies (RCOG, 2018) where the placenta adheres too deeply into the uterine wall. This means that it may not, or only partially, detach after baby has been born which can lead to increased blood loss and is linked to increased morbidity and mortality for both the mother and the baby. It is typically diagnosed during the routine 20-week ultrasound in pregnancy and is then managed accordingly, commonly this includes delivering baby via a planned caesarean section.