When the placenta covers the cervix.

A pregnancy-related condition where the placenta is placed abnormally low in the uterus, possibly covering the cervix, usually necessitating a caesarean section.

The placenta lies partly or completely over the cervix, instead of on the upper wall of the uterus. If the placenta remains in this position the baby will need to be born by Caesarean section. A placenta that partly covers the cervix in early pregnancy usually moves up and away as the uterus grows.

Placenta praevia (placenta previa AE) is an obstetric complication that can occur in the second or third trimester of pregnancy. It can some times occur in the latter part of the first trimester. It is a leading cause of antepartum haemorrhage (vaginal bleeding) and is characterised by the implantation of the placenta over or near the top of the cervix.