What are the most common causes of bleeding in the first trimester?
Bleeding or spotting in the first trimester can be common and doesn’t always mean there is something wrong. Try not to worry. Take notes of the type of bleeding you see and call your healthcare provider to let them know your symptoms.
Some causes of bleeding in the first part of pregnancy are:
- Implantation bleeding: This is when the fertilized egg implants in the wall of your uterus and causes light bleeding. It’s considered a normal part of early pregnancy.
- Molar pregnancy: A rare condition when a fertilized egg implants in your uterus, but a tumor forms instead of a fetus.
- Ectopic pregnancy: When a pregnancy forms outside of your uterus (like in your fallopian tubes). It can be life-threatening.
- Subchorionic hematoma: Bleeding from one of the membranes that surround the embryo inside your uterus. Subchorionic hematomas usually resolve on their own.
- Cervical polyps: A noncancerous growth on your cervix that bleeds in pregnancy due to increased estrogen levels.
- Miscarriage: The loss of the pregnancy before 20 weeks. It usually starts as light bleeding and gets heavier. It can be accompanied by severe cramping.
What are the most common causes of bleeding in the second or third trimester?
Bleeding in the second half of pregnancy is often associated with more serious conditions, so contact your healthcare provider immediately so they’re aware of your symptoms.
Some conditions that can cause bleeding in the second and third trimesters are:
- Placenta previa: When the placenta covers all or part of your cervix. It’s rare after 20 weeks of pregnancy.
- Placental abruption: A rare condition where the placenta detaches from the wall of your uterus. This can be dangerous for both you and your fetus.
- Preterm labor: Going into labor earlier than 37 weeks of pregnancy. Other symptoms of preterm labor are contractions, cramping or your membranes rupturing.
- Incompetent cervix: When the cervix opens (dilates) too early and causes premature labor.
- Bloody show: Light bleeding mixed with mucus that occurs toward the end of your pregnancy. It can be a sign that your body is preparing for labor.
- Miscarriage: A loss of the pregnancy after the 20th week. This is also called a stillbirth.
What are other causes of bleeding during pregnancy?
Sometimes bleeding isn’t caused by any medical conditions and your healthcare provider won’t be concerned. However, it’s always better to discuss any spotting or bleeding with them to make sure.
Other reasons you may bleed during pregnancy are:
- Sex: Some women experience light bleeding after sex. This is due to your cervix being extra tender during pregnancy.
- Pelvic exam or ultrasound: Your cervix can bleed after a pelvic exam or transvaginal ultrasound because it’s highly sensitive (due to increased hormones).
- Infection: Chlamydia, gonorrhea and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs), or urinary tract infections (UTIs) can cause light bleeding. These infections will need to be treated by your healthcare provider.
How much bleeding is normal in pregnancy?
Spotting in early pregnancy (the first trimester) is usually normal and not a sign of a serious issue. However, you should still let your healthcare provider know, especially if you’re unsure if it’s spotting or bleeding. There are several causes of first-trimester spotting that are not worrisome, but some are.
Is period-like bleeding during pregnancy normal?
Bleeding that resembles menstruation is not usually a symptom of pregnancy. Menstrual bleeding is a steady flow of blood lasting several days. If you experience anything more than light bleeding (spotting) or your bleeding lasts longer than 24 hours, you should contact your healthcare provider right away. Bleeding is not always a sign that something is wrong, but heavy bleeding or bleeding that’s accompanied by pain might indicate a complication.
What does vaginal bleeding during pregnancy look like?
Bleeding during pregnancy can look different for everyone. Your healthcare provider will want to know what your blood looks like so they can evaluate your symptoms. Some details you will want to track include:
- The color of your blood: Your blood might be brown, pink or bright red.
- The consistency of your blood: Is it smooth, thick or watery? Does it contain clots?
- How much blood there is: Did you see a few drops? Or are you filling a pad?
All of these details can help your healthcare provider determine the level of care you need and how urgent your symptoms are. Because bleeding at any time in pregnancy could indicate a problem, it’s always recommended to call your provider.
