Should You Worry About Bleeding During Pregnancy?
Published October 5, 2020
Should you worry about bleeding during pregnancy? This depends on many factors, and in most cases there is nothing to worry about. It should be taken seriously though during certain times and with accompanying symptoms. Let’s look at what can cause bleeding during pregnancy, what to look for, and when to call Downriver Obstetrics & Gynecology.
Common Causes Of Bleeding During Pregnancy
In most cases bleeding during pregnancy can be normal. This can depend on what stage of pregnancy you are in, how severe the bleeding is, and how long it lasts.
Normal Causes In The First Trimester
During the first trimester, bleeding is common in 15 – 25% of women. Light bleeding or spotting can happen 1 to 2 weeks after fertilization which is known as implantation bleeding, and it is perfectly normal. You can also have some bleeding after sexual intercourse or after a pap test or pelvic exam.
An infection in the cervix can also lead to bleeding in the first trimester.
Abnormal Causes In the First Trimester
Bleeding during the first trimester can be more serious and should be attended to by Downriver Obstetrics & Gynecology. It can be caused by the following:
Ectopic Pregnancy
This is when the fertilized egg implants outside the uterus and most likely in the fallopian tubes. It causes bleeding, cramps, dizziness, and lower abdominal pain.
Miscarriage
If you have a miscarriage, it will usually occur within the first 12 weeks, but most women with bleeding during this time do not have one. Best to have Downriver Obstetrics & Gynecology check you out especially if the bleeding is accompanied by tissue or clots and intense cramps.
Molar Pregnancy
This is a rare occurrence where an abnormal fertilized egg develops into abnormal tissue instead of a baby.
Bleeding In The Second Or Third Trimester
Bleeding during this period is more of a cause for concern.
Problems with the placenta can cause bleeding. Placenta abruption, placenta previa, or placenta accreta are all possibly serious conditions.
Inflammations of or on the cervix can cause light bleeding late in a pregnancy.
Preterm labor will cause bleeding. Call Downriver Obstetrics & Gynecology immediately with any bleeding accompanied with abdominal pain.
Don’t hesitate to contact Downriver Obstetrics & Gynecology at (734) 671-2110 if you have any concerns with bleeding during your pregnancy.
Categories: Obstetrics, Pregnancy