THE IMPORTANCE OF REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH AND FAMILY PLANNING IN THE PREVENTION OF PLACENTA PREVIA

Abstract

Background: Placenta previa (PP) is a life-threatening obstetric complication characterized by the abnormal implantation of the placenta over the internal cervical os. The rising incidence of PP globally correlates with increasing rates of cesarean sections and intrauterine interventions. This study aims to investigate the relationship between indicators of reproductive health (abortion history, birth spacing, contraceptive use) and the development of placenta previa in the population of the Fergana Valley. Methods: A retrospective case-control study was conducted at the Andijan Regional Perinatal Center (2022-2024). The study included 300 multiparous women: the Main Group (n=100) consisted of women diagnosed with placenta previa, and the Control Group (n=200) included women with normal placental location. Anamnestic data regarding reproductive history, method of contraception, and inter-pregnancy intervals (IPI) were analyzed. Results: Women with placenta previa had a significantly higher history of induced abortions (curettage) (45% vs. 12%, p<0.001) and previous cesarean sections (65% vs. 15%, p<0.001) compared to the control group. A short inter-pregnancy interval (<12 months) was observed in 38% of the PP group. Furthermore, the use of modern contraceptives was significantly lower in the PP group (22%) compared to the control group (58%). Conclusion: Poor reproductive health indicators, specifically a history of uterine instrumentation (abortions, C-sections) and lack of family planning, are the primary modifiable risk factors for placenta previa. Strategies focused on reducing primary cesarean sections and preventing unwanted pregnancies through effective contraception are essential for reducing the incidence of this pathology.