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Pregnancy

I have a low-lying placenta on my growth scan - will it move up, and what precautions help?

Moms share that a low-lying placenta sometimes moves up as the uterus expands and sometimes doesn't, that it's not something you caused or can force to change, and that even when it stays low, deliveries (often by C-section) can go smoothly.

💡Quick Answer

  • It may move up as the uterus expands - or it may not
  • You did not cause it and can't force it to move
  • Avoid heavy lifting and long car journeys
  • Stick to walks and physiotherapist-recommended exercises
  • It can mean a C-section, but deliveries often go smoothly

⚠️ Caution:Follow your doctor's or physiotherapist's specific precautions (avoiding heavy lifting and long travel), and attend recommended scans to monitor the placenta's position.

🤔What Parents Worry About

Moms blame themselves and fear they're doing something wrong when a low-lying placenta doesn't improve despite precautions. The community reassures that whether it moves up depends on uterine expansion and isn't in their control, that they did nothing wrong, and that even when it stays low the delivery - often a planned C-section - can go perfectly smoothly.

Community Answers from Moms(3)

Here's what moms in our community shared based on their own experience.

  1. 1

    One mom was diagnosed at her 18-week scan; the doctor said to take it easy. In some cases it moves up, depending on how your uterus expands.

  2. 2

    Another had a low-lying placenta throughout - it didn't move up significantly (final position 4 cm from the internal os). She avoided long car journeys, stuck to walks and physiotherapist-recommended exercises, and avoided heavy lifting. It led to a C-section but everything went smoothly.

  3. 3

    There's nothing wrong with having a low-lying placenta, and unfortunately not much can be done to make it go up - it depends on uterine expansion.

About These Answers

The information shared on this page comes from real experiences of mothers in our community. While we strive to provide helpful insights, this content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult with your pediatrician, healthcare provider, or other qualified medical professional for any questions regarding your child's health or development.

Last reviewed: June 17, 2026

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I have a low-lying placenta on my growth scan - will it move up, and what precautions help? | Real Mom Answers | Mom Insider