Placenta praevia is when the placenta lies low and may cover the cervix, complicating your baby's birth. Learn about diagnosis and treatment.

Retained placenta is when some of the placenta stays in your uterus after your baby is born. It can lead to serious infection or blood loss.

The placenta develops inside the uterus (womb) during pregnancy. It gives your baby nutrients and oxygen. Find out more about the placenta here.

Placenta accreta is a serious but rare pregnancy complication that causes heavy bleeding. If you have it, you will need special care at the birth.

Placental abruption is when your placenta partially or completely separates from the wall of the uterus before your baby’s birth.

Placental insufficiency is when the placenta doesn’t provide enough oxygen and nutrients for your baby. Find out about symptoms, causes and risks.

Cord blood banking is the collection of blood from the umbilical cord and placenta. Stem cells in the blood can be used to treat disease.

The third stage of labour happens after your baby is born, when your womb contracts and the placenta is delivered through your vagina.

Chorionic villus sampling (CVS) is a test done during pregnancy, where a sample of cells from the placenta is used to check for genetic conditions.

Even if you’re healthy and well prepared for childbirth, there’s always a chance of unexpected problems. Learn more about labour complications.