A placenta praevia diagnosed at 20 weeks is most likely to resolve by term when it is:
- A Posterior major praevia with placenta reaching internal os
- B Anterior minor praevia (low-lying, edge within 2 cm of os) ✓
- C Complete praevia with placenta covering the os by >2 cm
- D Praevia associated with a bicornuate uterus
Correct answer: B. Anterior minor praevia (low-lying, edge within 2 cm of os)
Explanation
Low-lying or minor placenta praevia diagnosed in the second trimester resolves by term in up to 90% of cases due to the differential growth of the lower uterine segment. The closer the placental edge is to (but not covering) the os and the thinner the lower segment, the greater the likelihood of resolution. Complete praevia covering the os by >2 cm at 32 weeks is unlikely to resolve and necessitates planned caesarean.
Reference: Williams Obstetrics, 26th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.