Retained placentas is a medical term used to describe when the placenta remains in the uterus after childbirth. The spelling of this term is pronounced as [rɪˈteɪnd pləˈsɛntəs] in IPA phonetic transcription. The word retained is spelled with a double "t" to indicate a firm hold or adherence. Placentas is spelled with a single "s" despite ending in "as" because it is a Latin word that has been adopted into English with a standard pronunciation. Retained placentas can lead to severe bleeding and other complications if not promptly treated by a medical professional.
Retained placentas refer to a medical condition that occurs when the placenta, after childbirth, is not expelled naturally from the mother's body within a certain period. In a normal delivery, the placenta separates from the uterine wall and is typically delivered within 30 minutes after the birth of the baby. However, in some cases, the placenta remains attached to the uterine wall, preventing its complete expulsion.
The condition can pose potential risks and complications for the mother. It may cause excessive bleeding or postpartum hemorrhage, infection, or retained products of conception. Symptoms of retained placentas include prolonged bleeding after delivery, abdominal pain or cramping, foul-smelling discharge, fever, or signs of infection.
Medical interventions are often required to manage retained placentas. Healthcare providers may attempt manual removal of the placenta, administered under local or general anesthesia. In certain cases, medications such as oxytocin or prostaglandins may be used to aid in the expulsion of the placenta. In more severe instances where conservative treatments fail, surgical procedures such as dilatation and curettage (D&C) or hysteroscopy may be necessary.
Prompt diagnosis and treatment of retained placenta are crucial to avoid complications, such as uterine infections or severe bleeding. Close monitoring and care by healthcare professionals are necessary to ensure a full recovery for the mother. It is essential for women who experience symptoms related to retained placentas to seek immediate medical attention to avoid potential health risks.
The word "retained" comes from the Latin term "retinere", which means "to hold back or keep". The word "placenta" comes from the Latin word for "flat cake" because of its appearance. Therefore, the term "retained placentas" refers to the condition in which the placenta is not expelled from the uterus after childbirth and remains attached to the uterine wall.