In case you or someone very close to you is pregnant for the first time, then a number of questions must be circling your head right now. If one of those doubts is regarding bleeding during pregnancy, then you have landed on the right page.
Vaginal bleeding can often occur in the first trimester of the pregnancy and is not necessarily a sign of any complication. However, since there can be a number of causes of bleeding, some of which can put the mother-to-be and child’s life in danger, it is better to visit a doctor to ensure the two are healthy.
Some common causes of bleeding based on the time of pregnancy are given below.
(Image Courtesy: Pregnancy & Baby)
First Trimester
About one in five pregnant women bleed during the first 12 weeks of pregnancy. The reasons behind it could be:
#1. Implantation Bleeding
Spotting or bleeding is normal within the first six to twelve weeks of conception as this is when the fertilized egg attaches itself to the uterus lining. Some mistake this bleeding for a light period and do not realize that they are pregnant. It usually lasts from a few hours to a few days.
#2. Miscarriage
Another cause of bleeding during pregnancy could be a miscarriage, which is most common during the first trimester. However, since only 10 percent of the women who experience vaginal bleeding during the first trimester miscarry, it should not get you worked up so soon.
#3. Ectopic Pregnancy
Ectopic pregnancy is when the fertilized embryo implants outside the uterus, possibly in the fallopian tube, and causes it to burst. Though it occurs in only 2 out of 100 pregnancies, this situation can be life-threatening for the mother and the baby.
(Image Courtesy: Ectopic Pregnancy)
#4. Molar Pregnancy
Also known as gestational trophoblastic disease, this is a rare condition in which, rather than a baby, an abnormal tissue grows within the uterus. In some cases, the tissue can be cancerous and put the woman’s life in danger by spreading to the other parts.
#5. Cervical Changes
During pregnancy, the flow of blood to the cervix increases. The pap test or intercourse during pregnancy that cause contact with the cervix can result in bleeding. It is completely normal, and you do not have to worry in such situations.
#6. Infection
Another possible reason behind bleeding during pregnancy is an infection. An infection of the cervix, vagina, or any sexually transmitted infection, such as gonorrhea, herpes or chlamydia, can cause bleeding during the first trimester.
(Image Courtesy: New Health Advisor)
Second and Third Trimester
Bleeding after the first trimester can be a sign of complication and if it happens to you or somebody you know, do not waste time in getting in touch with an obstetrician or gynecologist. Possible causes of bleeding during the second and third trimester are:
#1. Placenta Previa
When the placenta sits low in the uterus, covering some part of the opening of the birth canal, the condition is called Placenta Previa. This rare condition only occurs in one in 200 pregnancies. The painless bleeding, in this case, requires urgent medical attention.
#2. Uterine Rupture
Though quite uncommon, it is also possible that a scar from a previous C-section could burst and put the two lives in danger.
#3. Placental Abruption
At times, the placenta separates from the uterus wall before or during labor, and blood accumulates between placenta and uterus. This placental abruption can be dangerous for both mother and child; therefore, in case you suffer bleeding with abdominal pain, tender uterus, back pain and clotting, contact your doctor on an urgent basis.
(Image Courtesy: Placental Abruption)
Was the article helpful? Share your thoughts with us through comments in the dedicated section below.
(Featured Image Courtesy: Smile Grand Haven)
Share
