Which action should be avoided if placenta previa is suspected?

Which action should be avoided if placenta previa is suspected?

• A. Perform a digital vaginal examination
• B. Induce labor with prostaglandins
• C. Administer oxytocin
• D. Do not insert anything into the vagina

Answer: (D)

When placenta previa is suspected, the placenta lies near or over the cervix, and the uterus is highly vascular. Any vaginal manipulation can trigger heavy, life-threatening bleeding, so inserting anything into the vagina should be avoided. This includes digital vaginal examinations and other internal vaginal procedures. Diagnosis is usually confirmed with ultrasound rather than a vaginal exam, and management focuses on safety: monitor the mother and fetus, ensure IV access, plan for delivery by cesarean if the previa persists, and avoid interventions that could provoke bleeding (such as labor induction or oxytocin) until previa is ruled out.

When placenta previa is suspected, the placenta lies near or over the cervix, and the uterus is highly vascular. Any vaginal manipulation can trigger heavy, life-threatening bleeding, so inserting anything into the vagina should be avoided. This includes digital vaginal examinations and other internal vaginal procedures. Diagnosis is usually confirmed with ultrasound rather than a vaginal exam, and management focuses on safety: monitor the mother and fetus, ensure IV access, plan for delivery by cesarean if the previa persists, and avoid interventions that could provoke bleeding (such as labor induction or oxytocin) until previa is ruled out.