What does a battledore placenta refer to?

A battledore placenta refers specifically to a condition characterized by peripheral cord insertion at the placental margin. This means that instead of the umbilical cord being inserted in the center or more centrally on the placenta, it is located at the edge. This abnormality can sometimes be associated with a higher incidence of complications during delivery, as it may affect the placenta's ability to function effectively during pregnancy and labor. Understanding this terminology and its clinical implications is crucial for healthcare providers, as it can guide management and monitoring during pregnancy for potential risks associated with this type of placentation.