Does placental calcification cause weak fetal movement and prevent natural birth

Placental calcification is one of the conditions that can cause concern for many pregnant women, especially when it starts to appear on an ultrasound. One of the most common questions every mom-to-be has is: Does placental calcification affect the baby’s movements? And can it prevent a natural birth?In this Daleely Medical article, we’ll explain everything you need to know about placental calcification in a simple and clear way — including its causes, how it might affect fetal movement, its impact on the type of delivery, and important tips for every pregnant woman who wants to take care of her health and her baby’s well-being.

What Is Placental Calcification and Is It Dangerous?

Placental calcification is the buildup of small amounts of calcium on the surface of the placenta. This usually happens naturally toward the end of pregnancy. The placenta is the organ responsible for delivering oxygen and nutrients from the mother to the baby, and when it becomes calcified, its function may gradually start to decline.

If placental calcification appears before the 36th week of pregnancy, it can be concerning. That’s because it may reduce the flow of blood and oxygen to the baby, which can significantly affect fetal growth. In fact, early calcification increases the risk of growth problems by up to four times.

Does drinking milk increase the risk of placental calcification?

No, drinking milk or taking calcium supplements does not increase the risk of placental calcification, as long as the pregnant woman sticks to the recommended amounts advised by her doctor.

Can placental calcification affect fetal growth?

Yes, especially if the calcification is severe or appears early in the pregnancy. It may lead to delayed fetal growth and problems with the delivery of oxygen and nutrients to the baby.

When does placental calcification usually begin?

In a normal pregnancy, calcification of the placenta typically starts at the end of the ninth month as part of the natural aging process of the placenta. However, in some cases, early calcification can occur and may lead to complications for both the mother and baby.

What does a calcified placenta look like?

In severe cases (known as Grade 3 calcification), the placenta appears on ultrasound with large white spots due to calcium and phosphate deposits. It may also show cavity-like structures or ring-shaped formations, which are clearly visible on the scan.

How long can the baby survive with a calcified placenta?

The baby’s ability to thrive depends on the severity of the calcification and when it’s diagnosed. If the placenta reaches Grade 3, the healthcare team will closely monitor the baby’s health and growth. In some cases, the doctor may recommend early delivery, either naturally or via C-section, depending on the situation.

Can placental calcification affect the type of delivery?

Yes. In severe cases or when complications arise, doctors may prefer C-section delivery to ensure the safety of both mother and baby.

Does placental calcification cause pain for the mother?

Usually not. Calcification itself doesn’t cause direct pain. However, if complications like placental abruption occur, the mother may feel pain or experience other symptoms that require immediate medical attention.

Can placification go away or reverse?

Calcification is a permanent calcium deposit and does not go away. However, it may remain stable without getting worse — especially in a normal pregnancy with regular medical follow-ups.

Does placental calcification affect fetal movement?
Yes. If the calcification is severe and reduces the baby’s oxygen and nutrient supply, it may lead to decreased fetal movement. That’s why it’s important to monitor your baby’s movements regularly and contact your doctor immediately if you notice any changes.

Does having twins increase the risk of placental calcification?
Yes, twin or multiple pregnancies put extra pressure on the placenta, which can increase the chances of calcification.

Are there medications to reduce placental calcification?
There are no specific medications to treat placental calcification. However, doctors may recommend treating underlying health issues that contribute to calcification or prescribe supplements to support overall placental health.

Does placental calcification affect the mother’s health?
Typically, placental calcification affects the baby more than the mother. But in rare cases, complications may arise that could impact the mother’s health as well.

What are the symptoms of placental calcification in the ninth month?
In most cases, calcification is only detected during routine ultrasound scans. It usually has no noticeable symptoms, but when symptoms appear, they may include:

Unexplained vaginal bleeding
Delayed or abnormal fetal growth
Abdominal pain or pressure

What’s the link between placental calcification and aspirin?
Doctors may prescribe low-dose aspirin in certain cases of placental insufficiency because it:

Improves blood flow to the placenta, supporting better fetal health
Reduces pregnancy complications like preeclampsia
Decreases inflammation that can negatively affect placental function

Is placental calcification the same as fetal calcification?
No, they are different conditions.

Placental calcification is the buildup of calcium and minerals in the placenta, making it less flexible and less efficient at delivering oxygen and nutrients.
Fetal calcification involves calcium deposits in the fetus’s organs or tissues, usually due to metabolic or developmental issues.

Can placental calcification happen in every pregnancy?
Not necessarily. Placental calcification is often linked to specific health factors or habits during pregnancy and does not always repeat in future pregnancies.

Is it normal to have placental calcification in the ninth month?
Yes. Calcification in the ninth month is considered normal and is part of the natural aging process of the placenta before delivery. In such cases, doctors closely monitor the baby’s health and may decide between natural or C-section delivery depending on how the calcification affects oxygen and nutrient flow.

Does placental calcification prevent natural delivery?
In most cases, it does not prevent vaginal delivery. However, in rare situations where calcification is severe and significantly affects the placenta’s function, doctors may recommend a C-section to ensure the safety of both mother and baby.
If the calcium deposits are mild and not affecting the baby, a natural birth may still be possible with close medical monitoring.

When is placental calcification dangerous?
While usually not dangerous, placental calcification can pose a risk in some rare cases, such as:

Placental abruption: When the placenta detaches from the uterus before delivery, causing serious bleeding and endangering both mother and baby.
Preterm uterine contractions: Calcification may trigger early contractions, leading to preterm birth or pregnancy loss.
Fetal growth restriction: If the calcification affects nutrient and oxygen delivery, it may cause slow or impaired fetal growth.
Reduced placental function: Severe calcification can limit the placenta’s ability to nourish the baby, which may affect the baby’s health.

Does taking calcium cause placental calcification?
No, taking calcium is not a direct cause of placental calcification. On the contrary, calcium is essential for a healthy pregnancy and fetal development. Doctors usually recommend that pregnant women take the right amount of calcium based on their individual needs and medical advice.

Causes of Placental Calcification

Placental calcification occurs when calcium salts build up in the placental tissue. This can be due to various factors, including:

1. Natural Aging of the Placenta

As pregnancy progresses, especially after the 32nd week, it’s normal for calcium deposits to appear in the placenta as it prepares for delivery. This is a natural process and usually not a cause for concern.

2. Approaching the Due Date

The closer you are to your due date, the higher the chances of calcification due to the placenta’s natural aging.

3. Maternal Health Conditions

High blood pressure during pregnancy (preeclampsia)
Gestational diabetes
Smoking
Poor blood flow to the placenta (placental insufficiency)

4. Post-term Pregnancy

When the pregnancy goes beyond 40 weeks, the placenta begins to age, increasing the chance of calcification.

5. Placental Infections

Chronic or repeated infections can speed up the calcification process.

6. Oxygen Deficiency

If the fetus or placenta doesn't receive enough oxygen due to circulatory problems, placental tissues can become damaged and calcify.

7. Blood Clotting Disorders

Certain clotting disorders can reduce blood flow to the placenta, leading to calcification.

8. Poor Nutrition or Food Poisoning

Lack of essential vitamins and minerals can affect placental health.

9. Exposure to Radiation or Toxins

Contact with harmful substances may trigger placental calcification.

10. Multiple Pregnancies (Twins or More)

Carrying more than one baby puts extra pressure on the placenta, increasing the risk of early calcification.

11. History of Complicated Pregnancies or Miscarriages

Past placental problems can influence the current pregnancy’s placental health.

12. Advanced Maternal Age

Women over 35 are more prone to placental issues due to changes in blood vessel function.

13. Continuous Physical or Emotional Stress

Chronic stress can reduce blood flow to the placenta.

14. Hormonal Imbalance

Hormonal disruptions during pregnancy may affect placental growth and function.

15. Previous Uterine Surgeries

Procedures like dilation and curettage (D&C) or surgeries from previous pregnancies may leave scar tissue that affects the placenta.

16. Chronic Hypertension (Not Pregnancy-Related)

Long-term high blood pressure can damage blood vessels and reduce placental circulation.

17. Autoimmune Diseases

Conditions like lupus can affect the blood vessels and harm placental function.

18. Poor Placental Development

Weak or poorly formed blood vessels in the placenta can lead to calcification.

19. Multiple Previous Deliveries

Frequent pregnancies and deliveries may impact the placenta’s structure over time.

Placental Calcification Grades and What They Mean for You

Placental calcification is usually evaluated through ultrasound and is divided into 4 main grades depending on the appearance and amount of calcium deposits on the placenta:

Grade 0

Description: The placenta appears completely smooth with no visible calcifications.
Timing: From early pregnancy up to around week 31.
Meaning: The placenta is still immature or in the early stages of maturation. This is completely normal at this stage.

Grade 1

Description: Small, scattered calcium deposits begin to appear on the surface of the placenta.
Timing: From week 31 to 36.
Meaning: Early signs of placental maturation. Still considered normal and not concerning.

Grade 2

Description: Larger and more noticeable calcifications appear, extending into the sides of the placenta with visible calcified lines.
Timing: From week 36 to 38.
Meaning: The placenta is maturing and almost ready for delivery.

Grade 3

Description: Dense calcifications cover most of the placenta, with cracks or gaps between calcified areas.
Timing: From week 38 onwards.
Meaning: The placenta is fully mature. However, if Grade 3 calcification appears before week 38, it may indicate premature aging of the placenta.

Impact of Placental Calcification on You and Your Baby’s Health

1. Calcification Before Week 32

If calcification occurs before week 32, it's considered premature and may pose risks, including:

Placental abruption (separation from the uterine wall)
Preterm birth
Low birth weight or more serious complications for the baby

2. Calcification Between Weeks 28–36

If you have chronic health issues such as high blood pressure, diabetes, anemia, or heart problems, calcification during this period increases pregnancy risks.
It's essential to have regular follow-ups and thorough monitoring for both mother and baby.

3. Grade 3 Calcification at Week 36

Grade 3 calcification at 36 weeks can:

Increase maternal blood pressure
Lead to complications such as low birth weight
In such cases, your doctor may recommend early delivery or a C-section for your safety.

4. Calcification Between Weeks 37–42

During this phase, placental calcification is usually normal and safe since the baby is full-term.
However, you must deliver before 42 weeks, as the aging placenta may not supply enough oxygen and nutrients to the baby, which could affect brain development.

Complications of Placental Calcification on You and Your Baby

Placental calcification, especially if severe or early, may lead to:

Intrauterine Growth Restriction (IUGR):
Reduced placental function means the baby may not grow as expected.
Fetal Hypoxia (Low Oxygen):
Impaired blood flow leads to oxygen deprivation, which can affect fetal health and breathing.
Preterm Birth:
Calcification may prompt early labor due to reduced placental efficiency or maternal complications.
Placental Abruption:
Severe calcification can cause the placenta to detach prematurely from the uterus—very dangerous for both mother and baby.
Oligohydramnios (Low Amniotic Fluid):
May result from reduced placental function and affect the baby's movement and safety.
Stillbirth (Intrauterine Fetal Demise):
In extreme cases, lack of nutrients and oxygen can tragically result in fetal death.
Increased Risk of C-section:
Due to these potential complications, doctors often prefer C-sections for safety.

How Is Placental Calcification Diagnosed?

Ultrasound (Sonography):
The primary tool used to detect calcium deposits and assess the grade (0–3).
3D Ultrasound:
In specific cases, a 3D scan gives a clearer image for a more detailed evaluation.
Frequent Monitoring:
If there’s any risk, your doctor may request regular ultrasounds to track changes.
Additional Tests:
- Blood tests to monitor maternal and fetal health
- Doppler ultrasound to evaluate blood flow in the placenta and determine the impact on the baby

Best Sleeping Positions for Placental Calcification

If you have placental calcification, choosing the right sleeping position can improve blood flow to your baby’s brain and placenta. Here are the top tips:

1. Sleep on Your Left Side – The Best Position

Sleeping on your left side helps reduce pressure on the inferior vena cava (a major vein that returns blood from the legs to the heart), improving blood flow to the placenta and enhancing oxygen and nutrient delivery to the baby.

2. Avoid Sleeping on Your Back

Lying flat on your back can compress large blood vessels under the uterus, reducing blood supply to the placenta and baby, which can worsen complications.

3. Use Supportive Pillows

Place a pillow between your knees or behind your back to maintain proper alignment and reduce strain on your spine—this helps you stay comfortable and maintain the correct sleeping position.

4. Elevate Your Head Slightly

If you experience reflux or breathing difficulties, use an extra pillow to elevate your head. This improves breathing without compromising placental blood flow.

Important Tip:
Try to stick to these positions throughout your pregnancy, especially after week 28, to help maintain the baby’s health and reduce the effects of placental calcification.

How to Prevent Placental Calcification During Pregnancy

If you want to protect yourself and your baby from complications related to placental calcification, you need to follow up regularly with your doctor and stick to a few important practices during pregnancy:

Regular Check-ups with Your Doctor
Make sure to visit your doctor regularly to monitor your pregnancy and detect any placental issues early.
Managing Chronic Diseases
If you have high blood pressure, diabetes, or any chronic illness, keep it under control with your doctor's help to reduce the risk of placental calcification.
Eating a Healthy and Balanced Diet
Eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, proteins, and vitamins. Avoid greasy and salty foods.
Drinking Enough Water
Staying hydrated is essential to ensure proper blood flow to the placenta.
Avoid Smoking, Alcohol, and Drugs
These substances harm the placenta and increase the risk of calcification and other complications.
Rest and Avoid Stress
Stay away from psychological stress, and make sure you get enough rest and sleep.
Engage in Light Exercise
Activities like walking or gentle exercises are beneficial, but always consult your doctor before starting any routine.
Take Prenatal Supplements
Include folic acid, iron, and calcium supplements as prescribed by your doctor.
Avoid Harmful Chemicals and Radiation
Stay away from environments with harmful substances or radiation to protect both you and your baby.

Treatment of Placental Calcification

If your doctor confirms placental calcification, they may advise the following:

Continuous Medical Monitoring
You’ll need regular appointments to check on the placenta and monitor your baby’s movements through ultrasound.
Control Chronic Conditions
Continue managing your blood pressure and blood sugar with the treatments prescribed by your doctor.
Adopt a Healthier Lifestyle
Avoid smoking and alcohol, and eat a balanced and nutritious diet.
Rest and Reduce Stress
Ensure proper rest and avoid physical and mental exhaustion.
Monitor Fetal Movement
Keep an eye on your baby’s movements. If you notice reduced activity, inform your doctor immediately.
Medical Intervention if Complications Arise
If issues like restricted fetal growth or low oxygen levels appear, your doctor may recommend early delivery or hospital monitoring.
Continue Prenatal Supplements
Keep taking folic acid, iron, and calcium supplements as directed by your doctor.

Medications Used for Treating Placental Calcification or Its Complications

In the case of placental calcification or related problems, your doctor might prescribe some medications based on your condition, including:

Blood Pressure Medications
If you have high blood pressure, your doctor may prescribe pregnancy-safe medications like ACE inhibitors or others to keep your blood pressure stable and protect the placenta.
Diabetes Medications
For gestational or chronic diabetes, insulin or suitable medications may be used to manage blood sugar and maintain placental and fetal health.
Iron and Folic Acid Supplements
If you’re anemic, your doctor will likely recommend iron and folic acid supplements to improve fetal nutrition.
Medications to Improve Blood Flow (e.g., Low-dose Aspirin)
In some cases, your doctor may prescribe low-dose aspirin to enhance placental blood flow and lower the risk of complications from calcification.
Anti-inflammatory or Antibiotic Medications
If there’s an infection or inflammation in the placenta, the doctor will treat it with appropriate antibiotics or anti-inflammatory drugs, depending on the cause.

Which Specialist Treats Placental Calcification?

The primary doctor who handles placental calcification and related complications is an Obstetrician-Gynecologist (OB/GYN).

This specialist monitors the pregnancy, diagnoses placental and fetal issues, and manages any complications during pregnancy and delivery.

In some special cases, if you have chronic conditions like hypertension or diabetes, other specialists may be involved, such as:

Cardiologists – if there are heart issues affecting your pregnancy
Endocrinologists – for diabetes or hormonal disorders
Emergency or Critical Care Specialists – if the condition is severe and requires special attention

But generally, managing placental calcification and pregnancy care is the responsibility of your OB/GYN.

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