What is low-lying placenta?

These are two related but distinct findings, and the distinction affects what happens next. A low-lying placenta means the placenta's edge is close to the cervical opening — within about 2 cm — but not covering it. Placenta praevia means the placenta covers the opening. Either way, when found before around 20 weeks it very often resolves. As the uterus grows the placenta effectively moves away from the cervix, and the large majority of low-lying placentas identified early are no longer low later in pregnancy. So an early scan finding is usually not a cause for alarm. A follow-up scan in the third trimester, typically around 32 weeks, determines the position that matters. If the placenta still covers or sits very close to the cervix at that point, delivery is planned by caesarean. The symptom to know is painless bright red bleeding, usually in the later part of pregnancy. Any bleeding needs same-day assessment — do not wait to see if it settles. Your obstetrician may advise avoiding intercourse and strenuous activity depending on the specific finding.