How many weeks is a grade 2 placenta usually?

Nov 11, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Zhang Lu

Introduction

If the pregnancy progresses normally without complications such as hypertension or diabetes, the placenta gradually matures to grade II after 36 weeks of gestation. At this stage, the chorionic plate shows notches that do not extend to the basal layer, and the placental parenchyma becomes coarsely granular. The placenta can still normally supply nutrients and oxygen to the fetus, meeting the requirements for fetal growth and development. This condition represents a normal placental maturation process.

Generally, a Grade II placenta typically appears around weeks 36 to 40 of pregnancy, indicating that the placenta is nearly mature. If a Grade II placenta appears before week 32 or remains at Grade II after week 40, abnormal placental maturation may be present. In case of concerns, it is recommended to consult a healthcare provider early. Detailed analysis is as follows:

If pregnancy progresses normally without complications such as hypertension or diabetes, the placenta gradually develops to Grade II after week 36. At this stage, the chorionic plate shows indentations but has not reached the basal layer, and the placental parenchyma becomes coarser in texture. The placenta can normally supply nutrients and oxygen to the fetus, meeting fetal growth and developmental needs—this represents normal placental maturation.

If an ultrasound reveals a Grade II placenta before week 32, placental prematurity may be present, which requires vigilance for potential risk of fetal growth restriction. If the placenta remains at Grade II after week 40 without progressing to Grade III, further evaluation is needed based on indicators such as amniotic fluid volume and fetal heart rate monitoring to rule out possible placental insufficiency. In such cases, close monitoring of the fetal condition in utero is essential.

During pregnancy, regular ultrasound examinations should be performed as directed by a healthcare provider to monitor placental maturity and fetal development. If abnormal placental maturation is detected, additional evaluations should be completed under medical guidance to determine the underlying cause and implement targeted interventions to ensure maternal and fetal safety.

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At what time of day is the HCG level highest?

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Why are there so few people with a posterior placenta?

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