What to do in case of spotting or bleeding during pregnancy
Calling your doctor or midwife right away, even if the bleeding seems to have stopped, is the best action to take. There is always the possibility that the bleeding may be as a result of something minor, but it doesn't hurt to be cautious - especially where your baby is concerned.
Since some of the reasons for spotting during pregnancy are serious, what takes place after your doctor arrives will depend on how serious your condition is. Your doctor may need to perform several tests to determine the cause of the bleeding or spotting. He or she will probably perform a physical examination and if need be, he or she may also take blood samples and also do an ultrasound examination, just to make sure that your baby is in perfect condition.
If you are experiencing bleeding in addition to some symptoms such as extreme pain, it is advisable that you immediately rush to the emergency room as this may be an indication of a serious pregnancy complication. However, this does not mean that any bleeding or spotting that you notice when pregnant means that your baby is in danger. It simply means that there is something going on that a doctor needs to have a look at.
The difference between spotting and bleeding during pregnancy
The difference between spotting and bleeding lies in the level of blood flow. When the blood flow is minimal, and does not flow continuously, it is termed as spotting. Bleeding on the other hand is said to occur when blood flows continuously and when the amount of blood discharged from the vagina is significant.
In other words, spotting is light bleeding. Its color tends to vary from red to pink to brown. It also doesn't soak a sanitary pad.
What can cause spotting or bleeding during pregnancy?
- Sex and spotting during pregnancy
More blood flows to your cervix during pregnancy, so it's not unusual to notice spotting after intercourse. A cervical polyp (a benign growth on the cervix) can also cause spotting or bleeding after sex.
- A Pap smear or internal exam when pregnant
You may have spotting after you've had a Pap smear or internal exam for the same reasons – greater blood flow to the cervix or a cervical polyp.
- Spotting caused by Implantation bleeding
Very early in pregnancy, even before you realize you're pregnant, you may have some spotting for a day or two. This bleeding may be caused by the fertilized egg burrowing into the wall of your uterus, but no one knows for sure.
- Miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy may cause spotting or bleeding during pregnancy
Spotting or bleeding, especially if accompanied by abdominal pain or cramping, can be an early sign of miscarriage or an ectopic pregnancy (when the embryo implants outside the uterus, usually in one of the fallopian tubes). An ectopic pregnancy can be life-threatening, which is one of the reasons it's important to let your practitioner know immediately if you have bleeding or pain in your first trimester.
Up to a quarter of pregnant women have some spotting or bleeding in early pregnancy, and about half of these women miscarry. But if you have an ultrasound that shows a normal heartbeat between 7 and 11 weeks, your chances of continuing the pregnancy are greater than 90 percent.
- Infections when pregnant may cause bleeding or spotting
Spotting can also be caused by conditions unrelated to pregnancy. A vaginal infection (such as a yeast infection or bacterial vaginosis) or a sexually transmitted infection (such as trichomoniasis, gonorrhea, chlamydia, or herpes) can cause your cervix to become irritated or inflamed. An inflamed cervix is particularly prone to spotting after sex or a Pap smear.
- Placental problems or premature labor and spotting or bleeding
In the second or third trimester, bleeding or spotting can be a sign of a serious condition such as placenta previa, placental abruption (in which the placenta separates from the uterus), a late miscarriage (between 13 weeks and midpregnancy), or premature labor (which can happen between midpregnancy and 37 weeks).
Even first-trimester bleeding may be a sign of an underlying problem with the placenta. Research shows a link between early pregnancy bleeding and a greater chance of later complications, such as preterm delivery or placental abruption, particularly if the bleeding is heavy.
- Spotting as an indication of approaching labor
If your cervix begins to dilate as your body prepares for labor you may pass your mucus plug. It may be tinged with blood, which is why it's also referred to as "bloody show."
If you've made it to 37 weeks, passing your mucus plug is not a cause for concern. However, if there's more than a tinge of blood, or you have any other spotting or bleeding, be sure to call your practitioner.
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If you've made it to 37 weeks, passing your mucus plug is not a cause for concern. However, if there's more than a tinge of blood, or you have any other spotting or bleeding, be sure to call your practitioner.
Want to learn more about getting pregnant and having healthy babies? Go to the Pregnancy Miracle official website, its a good place to start
Anything on your mind? Share it in the comments below
Feeling generous? Buy us a coffee here
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