Bleeding during a pregnancy can cause a lot of worry. While it can be nerve racking, it is not always a sign of trouble. However, it should be treated as a serious condition until your doctor determines otherwise.
First Trimester Bleeding
During the first trimester, spotting is a common occurrence and whether or not it indicates a problem can depend upon a number of factors.
Implantation Bleeding Light spotting 7-10 days after conception is normal. This occurs when the egg attaches itself to the uterus. This bleeding is light and of short duration.
Cervicitis is the most common cause of bleeding during the first 12 weeks. It can occur when cervical cells are irritated during sex or due to an infection.
Ectopic Pregnancy - occurs when the egg implants itself somewhere other than the uterus, such as in the fallopian tubes. As the fetus grows, it causes swelling that can cause a great deal of pain. Symptoms of an ectopic pregnancy can also include vaginal bleeding. If left untreated, the mother's life may be jeopardized. In addition, if the egg is growing in a fallopian tube, the tube can rupture causing a life threatening hemorrhage.
Molar Pregnancy - is a condition where instead of a normal fetus developing, an abnormal mass develops. It is caused by a chromosomal abnormality in the sperm. This condition is very rare and is readily treated. One of the major symptoms of a moral pregnancy is bleeding. Bleeding associated with a molar pregnancy will occur before the 12th week of pregnancy.
Miscarriage - is another process that can be heralded by vaginal bleeding. A miscarriage is defined as a spontaneous abortion that occurs before the 20th week of the pregnancy and is therefore a risk during the second trimester. Bleeding associated with a miscarriage may be heavy or light, as well as constant or sporadic. There may also be signs that tissue has been passed. Any time you have recurring bleeding, or bleeding associated with pain, you should see your doctor immediately.
Second Trimester Bleeding
As with the first trimester, scant bleeding or spotting is common. However, if the bleeding is constant or recurs often, you should consult with your doctor. If the bleeding, whether it is heavy or light, is accompanied by pain, you should seek medical attention immediately.
Preterm Labor - this can occur anytime between the 20th and 37th week. Signs can include, vaginal bleeding, a watery mucus-like discharge, pain, and cramping. Preterm labor can also occur during the third trimester.
Placental Problems - these can occur if the placenta begins to separate from the uterus before the birth. While primarily a concern during the third trimester, it can occur during the later stages of the second and its primary symptom is vaginal bleeding.
Third Trimester Bleeding
During the third trimester, any bleeding, even spotting should result in a call to your doctor. If the bleeding stops, still call your doctor. Any late term bleeding can be a sign of impending trouble!
Placental Abruption - this occurs when the placenta begins to separate from the uterus before labor commences. The first sign of this problem is vaginal bleeding, although blood is not always present as it may be trapped inside. Without prompt treatment, the fetus may die as its oxygen, and blood supply, is cut off. There is also the risk that the mother will suffer a hemorrhage.
Placenta previa - this occurs when the placenta sits very low in the uterus. In such cases the placenta may fully or partially cover the cervical opening. If undiagnosed, there is the possibility that the mother will hemorrhage before or during the delivery. As with placental abruption, the main symptom of placenta previa is vaginal bleeding. In this case, the blood tends to be bright red and it may be either scanty or heavy. However, while an abruption can be associated with pain, placenta previa is usually painless.
Treatments for Pregnancy Related Bleeding
If you experience any bleeding, at any time during the pregnancy, contact your doctor immediately. Treatment options will depend upon the cause of the bleeding.
Your best chance of maintaining a healthy pregnancy is good prenatal care and maintaining a healthy life style.
The earlier a problem is diagnosed and treated, the better the chances of a successful outcome.
