An aged placenta, also known as placental insufficiency, hinders fetal development and, depending on when it is diagnosed—either early or late in pregnancy—can present higher or lower risks.

The placenta is essential for fetal development throughout the nine months of pregnancy. Formed inside the uterus, its role is to provide the baby with oxygen and the nutrients necessary for growth and development, as well as to protect it from toxins by filtering harmful substances.

Depending on the stage of pregnancy, the placenta goes through several degrees of maturation. Until 30 weeks, it is considered Grade 0; between 31 and 32 weeks, Grade I begins; at 36–37 weeks, it reaches Grade II; and Grade III appears around week 38, as the body prepares for childbirth. The degree of placental aging is determined by calcifications—whitish calcium deposits resembling small pebbles.

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The causes of placental aging include advanced diabetes, high blood pressure, severe blood clotting disorders (uncompensated during pregnancy), severe anemia, and, not least, smoking and alcohol consumption. Placental insufficiency may also occur as a secondary effect of placental abruption, especially after the seventh month. When this condition appears early in pregnancy, the main risk is that the placenta delivers progressively less oxygen and nutrients to the fetus, endangering its life. As a result, the baby may not gain weight properly and may have a low birth weight. There are cases in which the fetus does not receive enough oxygen, leading to suffocation or developmental health issues. Depending on gestational age, premature delivery may be induced to remove the baby from a now-dangerous environment.

Pregnancy at 16–17 years of age, as well as after age 35, increases the risk of placental aging.

Unfortunately, there are no clear symptoms that the expectant mother can identify, but very intense nausea and loss of appetite are signs that should prompt her to consult the physician monitoring the pregnancy. Diagnosis is made through ultrasound by measuring placental thickness.

Placental insufficiency cannot be cured, but it can be closely monitored throughout the pregnancy.

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Aged Placentas

If you have questions related to aged placentas or would like recommendations on evaluating and monitoring your newborn during the first days of life, you may request an individual consultation at any time. A thorough assessment helps determine the most suitable monitoring and support plan for your child.

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