Which of the following is NOT a sign or symptom of placenta previa?

• A. Sudden onset of bright-red bleeding
• B. Painful contractions
• C. Painless bleeding
• D. Fundal height higher than gestational age

Answer: (B)

In cases of placenta previa, one of the defining characteristics is the occurrence of painless bleeding, particularly in the third trimester. This is often how individuals first become aware of this condition, as they may experience bright-red bleeding without accompanying pain.

Sudden onset of bright-red bleeding is indeed a common symptom associated with placenta previa, as it can occur when the placenta partially or completely covers the cervix and begins to bleed. This bleeding is typically painless, which helps distinguish it from other conditions that cause bleeding during pregnancy.

Fundal height measurements may also be higher than expected for gestational age in cases of placenta previa, as the presence of the placenta over the cervix can distort the normal growth patterns of the uterus.

Painful contractions, on the other hand, are typically associated with other complications of pregnancy, such as placental abruption or preterm labor, rather than placenta previa itself. Therefore, this symptom is the one that does not align with the typical presentation of placenta previa.