A Cross-Sectional Study to Evaluate the Impact of Placental Location on Maternal and Fetal Outcomes

Background The human placenta is a critical organ for facilitating nutrient uptake, waste elimination, and gaseous exchange between the mother and the fetus. In the placenta, there are two circulations, namely, maternal and fetal. The blood supply of the placenta is not uniformly distributed as the maternal circulation, determined by uterine blood supply, depends on the implantation site. The uterine blood supply plays a significant role in placental blood flow and pregnancy success. Hence, abnormalities in the placental implantation may affect the placenta’s blood supply, leading to adverse maternal and fetal outcomes. This study aims to examine the relationship between placental location and maternofetal outcomes. Methodology This cross-sectional study was conducted in the Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology at Bijapur Lingayat District Educational Association (Deemed to be University), Shri B. M. Patil Medical College, Hospital and Research Centre, Vijayapura, from January 2021 to April 2022. A total of 1,301 patients were included in this study. Results There was a positive and significant association between fundal implantation and severe preeclampsia and premature rupture of membranes. There was a positive and significant association between left lateral implantation and severe preeclampsia. The histopathological changes seen in the histopathological report of the fetal surface of the placenta also had a positive and significant association with the fundal location of the placenta. Conclusions This study suggests that fundal left lateral placentation leads to abnormal results. Such patients can be considered high risk and should be given meticulous antenatal care, depending on placental location at the 28-week ultrasonography.