Bleeding During Pregnancy: Causes and Treatment

Bleeding during pregnancy refers to the occurrence of vaginal bleeding while a woman is pregnant. This bleeding can vary in severity, ranging from light spotting to heavy bleeding.

Bleeding during pregnancy can occur for various reasons, some of which may be harmless, while others may indicate underlying complications.

What Causes Bleeding During Pregnancy?

• Implantation bleeding
• Hormonal changes
• Cervical changes
• Miscarriage
• Ectopic pregnancy
• Molar pregnancy
• Placental problems
• Preterm labor
• Infection

Bleeding during pregnancy can be caused by various factors, including:

Implantation Bleeding

Light spotting may occur when the fertilized egg implants itself into the uterine lining, typically around the time of the expected menstrual period.

Hormonal Changes

Fluctuations in hormone levels, particularly during early pregnancy, can sometimes lead to minor vaginal bleeding.

Cervical Changes

Increased blood flow to the cervix during pregnancy can make it more sensitive and prone to bleeding, especially after sexual intercourse or a pelvic exam.

Miscarriage

Vaginal bleeding accompanied by abdominal cramping and tissue passing may indicate a miscarriage, which is the loss of a pregnancy before the 20th week.

Ectopic Pregnancy

In some cases, vaginal bleeding may be a sign of an ectopic pregnancy, where the fertilized egg implants outside the uterus, typically in the fallopian tube.

Molar Pregnancy

A molar pregnancy, or gestational trophoblastic disease, occurs when abnormal tissue grows in the uterus instead of a normal fetus. Vaginal bleeding may be a symptom of this condition.

Placental Problems

Bleeding during the second or third trimester may indicate issues with the placenta, such as placenta previa (placenta partially or completely covering the cervix) or placental abruption (premature separation of the placenta from the uterine wall).

Preterm Labor

In some cases, vaginal bleeding may be a sign of preterm labor, which occurs before the 37th week of pregnancy.

Infection

Certain infections, such as vaginal or cervical infections, may cause vaginal bleeding during pregnancy.

Ways to Stop Bleeding During Pregnancy

Stopping bleeding during pregnancy depends on the underlying cause. Here are some general steps that may be taken:

Rest

Avoiding strenuous activities and getting plenty of rest can help alleviate stress on the body and may reduce the severity of bleeding.

Avoid Intercourse

Refraining from sexual intercourse until the bleeding is evaluated by a healthcare provider is often recommended. Sexual activity may irritate the cervix and potentially worsen bleeding.

Stay Hydrated

Drinking plenty of fluids is essential to stay hydrated, especially if there is any associated dehydration due to bleeding.

Pelvic Rest

Your healthcare provider may recommend pelvic rest, which typically includes abstaining from sexual intercourse and avoiding the use of tampons. This helps minimize the risk of further irritation or trauma to the cervix.

Elevate Legs

If bleeding is associated with pelvic rest or bed rest, elevating the legs while lying down can help improve circulation and reduce swelling in the lower extremities.

Medical Evaluation

It's crucial to contact a gynecologist immediately for evaluation and guidance if you experience any bleeding during pregnancy. They may perform tests, such as ultrasound or blood tests, to determine the cause of bleeding and provide appropriate treatment.

Follow Medical Advice

Once evaluated, it's essential to follow your healthcare provider's recommendations for treatment and follow-up care closely.

Treatment Options for Bleeding During Pregnancy

Hormonal Support

In some cases, hormonal support in the form of progesterone supplements may be recommended to support the pregnancy and reduce the risk of miscarriage.

Cervical Cerclage

In cases of cervical incompetence or short cervix, a cervical cerclage procedure may be performed to stitch the cervix closed and prevent preterm labor.

Blood Transfusion

If bleeding is severe and leads to significant blood loss, a blood transfusion may be necessary to replace lost blood and maintain adequate circulation.

Surgical Intervention

In certain situations, such as placental abruption or ectopic pregnancy, surgical intervention may be required to address the underlying issue and prevent further complications.

When to See a Doctor?

Normal pregnancy bleeding is usually not a cause of concern. However, suppose the bleeding is accompanied or followed by lightheadedness, contractions, fever, nausea, abdominal pain, or chills, and lasts for more than a few days. In that case, it is best to consult a doctor.

If you have already been told that your bleeding is normal, but if it becomes heavier, then it may not be normal. Seek medical help immediately!

Frequently Asked Questions