Which maternal condition can lead to the risk of placenta previa?

Previous cesarean delivery is a significant risk factor for developing placenta previa. This condition occurs when the placenta partially or completely covers the cervix, which can lead to complications during delivery. The scarring and changes in the uterine structure following a cesarean section can alter the positioning of the placenta in subsequent pregnancies. Research indicates that women with a history of one or more cesarean deliveries are at a higher risk of experiencing placenta previa compared to those who have had vaginal deliveries. This increased risk is attributed to the potential for uterine scarring and the location of the placenta in relation to the uterine scar.

While gestational diabetes, hypertension, and obesity are important maternal conditions that can pose various risks during pregnancy, they do not have a direct association with the development of placenta previa. Therefore, the history of previous cesarean delivery stands out as the most pertinent risk factor for this specific condition.