UK Hospitals Fail to Detect Deadly Pregnancy Condition

A UK campaign, 'Action for Accreta,' is raising alarms about the nation's inadequate identification and preparation for Placenta Accreta Spectrum (PAS). This serious pregnancy complication, linked to increasing C-section and IVF rates, can lead to severe haemorrhaging.

Amisha Adhia, who was misdiagnosed by five hospitals, spearheads the campaign. She emphasizes the emotional distress and danger faced by women whose conditions are dismissed. More than 40 families have shared similar harrowing experiences of late detection or undiagnosed PAS.

Leading charities and parliamentarians support the campaign, urging the NHS to update its outdated guidance. Dr. Chineze Otigbah notes that current NHS practices have not kept pace with the rise in risk factors like C-sections, making detection difficult and attention low.

PAS occurs when the placenta embeds too deeply into the womb. If not identified, it can result in emergency hysterectomy or death. With C-section births now surpassing vaginal births in England, experts warn of an escalating risk for UK women, with UCLA research suggesting 14,000 pregnancies may be affected annually.

'Action for Accreta' demands urgent reforms, including better tracking of the condition, updated guidance and training, and preparedness in all maternity units. The Department of Health and Social Care stated commitment to improving maternity safety through investigations and investments.