“What Do I Do About Bleeding In Early Pregnancy?”

What Do I Do About Bleeding In Early Pregnancy?

Bleeding and Light Cramping in Early Pregnancy
No one wants to worry about all the “what ifs” that may occur during pregnancy. Whether a first time mother or veteran however, all women have at some time or another worried about complications that may arise during pregnancy.

Bleeding during pregnancy, while not common, is sometimes a side effect of pregnancy. No matter your stage of pregnancy, bleeding during pregnancy is often scary. Many women experience light vaginal bleeding during pregnancy at some time or another. Typically light vaginal bleeding when it occurs, happens during early pregnancy.

Light vaginal bleeding or spotting is not always a sign something is wrong during pregnancy. Light bleeding occurring shortly after ovulation for example, may suggest the embryo is implanting into the uterine lining. Generally this happens between six to ten days after ovulation.

Some light bleeding may also occur as you miss your monthly menstrual cycle. For some women, light spotting off and on throughout early pregnancy is normal.  Many of these women will go on to deliver normal, healthy babies. Bleeding may also occur as your cervix changes during pregnancy. Some women experience light bleeding or spotting after sexual intercourse or after pelvic exams. This is common because the cervix is more sensitive during pregnancy.

Tiny tears or infections during pregnancy may also result in light spotting or bleeding.

When Bleeding Is A Warning Sign
Sometimes light bleeding during pregnancy is a sign something more serious is occurring. Light bleeding accompanied by cramping may be a sign of miscarriage for example, during the first trimester of pregnancy. This doesn’t mean all women who have bleeding during the first trimester will have a miscarriage. Studies in fact suggest as many as 50% of women with light bleeding during the first 12 weeks of pregnancy will go on to deliver normally.

You should always however, contact your health care provider if you are not certain. Miscarriage is often accompanied by cramping or lower abdominal pain and back pain. Sometimes bleeding occurs after a miscarriage is in progress.

Other times bleeding may signify an ectopic pregnancy. An ectopic pregnancy occurs when the embryo implants outside of the uterus. More commonly this occurs within the fallopian tube. While uncommon, this condition may result in heavy internal bleeding that puts the life of the mother at risk. Signs and symptoms aside from vaginal bleeding may include abdominal pain that is worse on one side or the other, nausea, dizziness and increasing pelvic pressure.

While it helps understanding that light bleeding during pregnancy is not necessarily a sign of imminent danger, it is important you realize sometimes bleeding may signal a more serious problem. If you do experience bleeding or spotting during pregnancy, regardless of the stage of pregnancy you are in, always consult your healthcare provider for guidance and instruction.

Some women will experience bleeding during later pregnancy. This may be a sign of placental abruption or premature labor. If you do experience bleeding later in pregnancy call your doctor immediately. Bleeding closer to term may simply be a sign you are in active labor, but you never can be too careful when it comes to the health of you and your unborn baby. Remember, when in doubt, ask!