Which risk factor is associated with an increased likelihood of placenta previa?

The association between having a previous cesarean delivery and an increased likelihood of placenta previa is well-established in obstetric practice. When a woman undergoes a cesarean section, it creates a scar in the uterus. If the placenta implants over or near this scar during subsequent pregnancies, it can result in placenta previa, where the placenta partially or completely covers the cervix. This condition increases the risk of complications during delivery and can lead to significant bleeding.

In contrast, factors like smoking and low blood pressure do not have a direct correlation with an increased incidence of placenta previa, while aging under 30 years is generally not considered a risk factor for this condition; in fact, placenta previa is more commonly associated with advanced maternal age. Therefore, previous cesarean deliveries represent a significant risk due to the potential for abnormal placentation at the site of the uterine scar.