Normally, the placenta attaches at the top or side of the uterus. In some cases, the placenta develops in the wrong location or attaches itself too deeply into the uterine wall. These placental disorders are called placenta previa, placenta accreta, placenta increta or placenta percreta.

What causes abnormal placenta?

Placenta accreta occurs when the placenta grows too deeply into the uterine wall during pregnancy. Scarring in the uterus from a prior C-section or other uterine surgery may play a role in developing this condition.

What happens if you have an abnormal placenta?

Complications. Due to the role that the placenta plays in oxygen and nutrient delivery, placental abruption can cause deprivation of these vital nutrients. This deprivation can lead to abnormal fetal development, premature delivery, fetal growth restriction, and stillbirth.