A pregnancy that implants in the old scar
Rare, dangerous, and increasingly recognized.
A cesarean scar pregnancy implants directly into the old uterine incision. It can grow through the uterine wall and cause catastrophic bleeding, and it is a precursor to placenta accreta.
In a review of 112 published cases, incidence was estimated at roughly 1 in 1,800 to 1 in 2,216 pregnancies. Notably, 52% of reported cases occurred after only one prior cesarean. Of six cases managed expectantly, three ruptured and required hysterectomy.
Practical implicationIf you have had a cesarean, an early ultrasound in the next pregnancy is worth requesting, specifically to confirm where the pregnancy has implanted.
Where this comes from:
326. Rotas MA, Haberman S, Levgur M. Cesarean scar ectopic pregnancies: etiology, diagnosis, and management. Obstet Gynecol. 2006;107(6):1373-1381.
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This page is educational. It supports the conversation with your own clinicians. It is not consent to any treatment, and it cannot assess you. If you are worried about a symptom now, see urgent warning signs.