From the Research
Placental lakes typically do not require specific management as they are considered normal variations in placental structure, and according to the most recent study 1, their presence or size is not associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes. The management of a placental lake should focus on routine prenatal care with regular ultrasound monitoring to ensure the placental lake is not increasing significantly in size or causing any complications.
- No medications or interventions are typically needed for placental lakes.
- If the placental lake is particularly large or located near the umbilical cord insertion, more frequent ultrasound monitoring may be recommended, typically every 4-6 weeks, to assess fetal growth and placental function, as suggested by studies such as 2 and 3.
- Patients should be reassured that placental lakes are common, occurring in approximately 2-10% of pregnancies, and rarely cause problems, as noted in 4 and 5.
- The presence of a placental lake alone is not an indication for early delivery or cesarean section. However, if other concerning findings develop, such as fetal growth restriction or abnormal Doppler studies, then management would be directed at those specific issues rather than the placental lake itself, as indicated by 3. Overall, the key to managing a placental lake is close monitoring and addressing any potential complications that may arise, rather than the placental lake itself, as supported by the most recent and highest quality study 1.