Low lying placenta with hemorrhage, second trimester

This code signifies a condition where the placenta is implanted in the lower uterine segment, but not covering the internal cervical os, during the second trimester of pregnancy, and is associated with vaginal bleeding. It indicates a potential risk for further complications due to the placental position and the presence of hemorrhage.

Apply this code when documentation clearly states a low-lying placenta identified in the second trimester, accompanied by an active or historical episode of vaginal bleeding. This diagnosis is typically made via ultrasound and confirmed by clinical signs of hemorrhage.

• Ensure the documentation specifies "low-lying" and not "placenta previa" to differentiate from codes in the O44.0-O44.4 series.
• Verify the trimester of pregnancy is explicitly stated as the second trimester.
• Always sequence this code as a principal diagnosis when it is the reason for the encounter, or as a secondary diagnosis if another condition is the primary reason for admission.