There are plenty of reasons that you might experience bleeding during pregnancy. Some are serious, while others aren't anything to worry about. Knowing when to talk to your doctor could be an important factor in your health and that of your unborn baby. Here's some information to help.
Bleeding in the First Trimester
It's common to experience some bleeding in the first twelve weeks of pregnancy. There are several possible causes.
Implantation – You might notice a small amount of bleeding ten to fourteen days after fertilization. That's when the egg attaches itself to your uterine lining. This is lighter and spottier than menstrual bleeding, and is short. However, some women think that this bleeding is a period, and don't know they're pregnant.
Changes in the Cervix – More blood flows to the cervix during pregnancy. This means that if you have a pelvic exam or sex, you might experience bleeding. This is harmless.
Miscarriage – As many as fifteen percent of known pregnancies end in a miscarriage. The primary sign of a miscarriage is bleeding, but it doesn't necessarily mean that this has happened if you see blood. Many women who bleed early in pregnancy go on to have healthy babies.
Ectopic Pregnancy – This is when an embryo implants in a location other then the uterine lining, usually a fallopian tube. This type of pregnancy often corrects itself, but it can be dangerous without treatment. Ectopic pregnancies are not viable.
Infections – A cervical infection can cause you to bleed early in your pregnancy.
In the Second Trimester or Later
Miscarriage is still a problem. While it's more common in the first twelve weeks, you still risk it in the second trimester.
Preterm labor – Light bleeding accompanied by contractions, pressure, or a dull ache in your back may signal early labor.
Cervical problems – Growths on your cervix, an infection or inflammation can cause bleeding.
Placenta previa – This is a serious problem where the placenta covers the opening to the birth canal, either partially or entirely. This blood is bright red and usually painless. If it stops, it almost always recurs.
Placental abruption – When the placenta begins to separate from the uterus too early, bleeding accompanied by pain may result.
Uterine rupture – Women who have had a C-section in the past may, rarely, experience tearing of the uterus along the scar line. This can cause intense pain and vaginal bleeding. An emergency C-section is required, to prevent life endangering complications.
If you have vaginal bleeding accompanied by severe pain or cramping, a fever, contractions or chills, or if the bleeding lasts a long time, it's time to call your doctor. While it's possible that it's a false alarm, you're better off safe than sorry.
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Ectopic pregnancies are a type of pregnancy complication where the fertilized egg implants in tissue other than the wall of the uterus. While most pregnancies of this type happen inside the Fallopian tubes (tubal...
