The objective of this study was to identify antepartum risk factors for peripartum hysterectomy in women with placenta previa. The medical records of women with placenta previa who underwent cesarean section (C/S) were reviewed retrospectively. Data regarding the reproductive history and peripartum outcomes were analyzed. Multivariable analysis was used to identify factors independently associated with hysterectomy. During an 8.5-year period, 346 cases of placenta previa were identified in 24,987 deliveries (1.4%). An emergent hysterectomy was performed in 31 patients (9.0%). Multiparity, total previa, history of abortion, C/S, and placenta previa was more common in the hysterectomy group. An increasing number of abortions and C/S were associated with a higher frequency of hysterectomy. By the multivariable analysis, previous abortion, previous C/S, and total previa were significant risk factors for hysterectomy. We concluded that in women with placenta previa, history of abortion as well as prior C/S, and a total previa are strong antepartum risk factors for peripartum hysterectomy.