Vaginal bleeding or spotting during the first trimester of pregnancy is relatively common. Some amount of light bleeding or spotting during pregnancy occurs in about 20% of pregnancies, and most of these women go on to have a healthy pregnancy. Show
What is implantation bleeding?Implantation bleeding is bleeding that occurs when the fertilized egg implants in the lining of the uterus. This happens around the time of the expected menstrual period. Implantation bleeding may occur before a woman realizes she is pregnant. What are the serious causes of vaginal bleeding in the first trimester of pregnancy? What if I am pregnant and the bleeding severe?Causes for severe bleeding during pregnancy include miscarriage, threatened miscarriage, and ectopic pregnancy. If you are pregnant and have vaginal bleeding, call 911 and go to the emergency department. Ectopic Pregnancy SymptomsThere are three classic signs and symptoms of ectopic pregnancy
However, approximately 50% of women with an ectopic pregnancy will not have all three signs. Read more about ectopic pregnancy symptoms » How much bleeding is normal during pregnancy?Vaginal bleeding during the first three months of pregnancy is relatively common and usually is a cause of concern for the mother. Women wonder how much bleeding during early pregnancy is normal. While early bleeding may indicate the presence of a serious problem, this is frequently not the case. In fact, approximately 20% of pregnant women experience light bleeding or spotting during the first trimester of pregnancy. Most women go on to have uncomplicated pregnancies and ultimately deliver a healthy baby. Spotting: Spotting usually refers to a few drops of blood that would not cover a pad or panty liner. Bleeding refers to blood flow that is heavy enough to require wearing a pad. If bleeding occurs during the first trimester, wear a panty liner or pad so that you are able to get an idea of the amount of bleeding that is occurring and can tell the health care professional. However, you should not use a tampon in the vagina or douche during pregnancy. What other problems cause bleeding during early pregnancy (first trimester)?Changes in the cervix: The normal hormone production during pregnancy can cause changes to the cervix, rendering it softer and more prone to bleeding. In addition, a cervical polyp (a benign overgrowth of tissue) may form, and this may bleed more easily during pregnancy. In both cases, spotting or light bleeding may be provoked following sexual intercourse or a pelvic examination. Infection: A vaginal infection may cause spontaneous vaginal bleeding during pregnancy. The bleeding may be accompanied by an abnormal vaginal discharge. SLIDESHOW16 Early Signs & Symptoms of Pregnancy: Could You Be Pregnant? See SlideshowWhat causes heavy bleeding during early pregnancy (first trimester)?
Vaginal bleeding during early pregnancy may sometimes indicate a serious problem. Serious causes of bleeding in pregnancy include: Miscarriage
Molar pregnancy
Ectopic pregnancy
Threatened miscarriage
Subchorionic hemorrhage
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What is implantation bleeding during the first trimester?
A common benign cause of bleeding may occur even before a woman realizes that she is pregnant. Many women bleed when the fertilized egg attaches to the lining of the uterus. This is called implantation bleeding. It frequently occurs when the next menstrual period is expected. Signs of implantation bleeding are light bleeding or spotting around the time of the expected menstrual period. This does not happen in every pregnancy. QUESTIONNothing can relieve the symptoms of morning sickness. See AnswerWhat causes bleeding during pregnancy (second and third trimesters)?Bleeding or spotting later in pregnancy can be due to a number of causes. Sometimes, having sex or even having an internal (pelvic) examination by your ob-gyn or midwife can cause light bleeding during pregnancy. Problems with the cervix, including cervical insufficiency (when the cervix opens too early in pregnancy) or infection of the cervix, can lead to bleeding. More serious causes of bleeding in later pregnancy include placenta previa, preterm labor, uterine rupture, or placental abruption. When should you call your doctor if you have heavy bleeding during pregnancy?Any time you notice bleeding during any stage of pregnancy, it is appropriate to call your doctor. It is particularly important to seek medical attention if the bleeding is heavy (like a menstrual period) or accompanied by pain or cramping. Subscribe to MedicineNet's Pregnancy & Newborns NewsletterBy clicking "Submit," I agree to the MedicineNet Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy. I also agree to receive emails from MedicineNet and I understand that I may opt out of MedicineNet subscriptions at any time. Health Solutions From Our Sponsors
Medically Reviewed on 2/18/2022 References Norwitz, E.R., et al. "Overview of the etiology and evaluation of vaginal bleeding in pregnant women." UpToDate. Nov. 17, 2021. <https://www.uptodate.com/contents/overview-of-the-etiology-and-evaluation-of-vaginal-bleeding-in-pregnant-women>. Complete List Top Pregnancy: Bleeding During the First Trimester Related Articles
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