Bleeding In Pregnancy

Pregnancy Problems

More than 95% of all pregnancies are without complications and only a small percentage run into serious problems. Although I hope you never have to reach this page, here are some articles on the possible problems in pregnancy.

The information here is not meant to be medical advice. It is important that you discuss your pregnancy problems with your doctor.

Bleeding In Pregnancy

Bleeding in pregnancy is common, especially during the first trimester, and usually it's no cause for alarm. But because bleeding can sometimes be a sign of something serious, it's important to know the possible causes, and get checked out by your doctor to make sure you and your baby are healthy.

Bleeding In The First Trimester

A common cause of bleeding in the first trimester is Cervical Changes in Pregnancy. This is bleeding from the sensitive cells of the cervix coming in contact with the vaginal walls. Bleeding can occur after prolong walking or from sexual intercourse. This type of bleeding is not a cause for concern. Other causes of bleeding in the first trimester are:

Implantation bleeding : where bleeding occur from the pregnancy trying to sit itself in the womb.
Infection : like chlamydia, trichomonas or severe candidiasis.
Miscarriage : by far is the most concern cause. When bleeding is severe and with cramps, half of the women may end up with a miscarriage. In the majority of these unfortunate cases, the bleeding is a result of a failing pregnancy rather than the cause of it. Although there is no treatment to prevent a miscarriage, Progesterone support is usually given in the hope that it will help a precarious pregnancy continue to develop properly.
Ectopic Pregnancy : is a condition where the pregnancy is outside the womb, usually in the fallopian tube. This form of bleeding is usually associated with localized pelvic pain. It is important to confirm the location of the pregnancy as ectopic pregnancy can be dangerous to your life.

Bleeding After The First Trimester

Bleeding in the late pregnancy can be because of :

Infection : similar to that in first trimester when bleeding is from the cervix.
Marginal Vessel Bleed : where small blood vessels around the placenta bleeds. The bleeding usually stops spontaneously and will not harm the pregnancy.
Placenta Previa : where the placenta sits low in the womb, partially covering the outlet of the womb. It occurs in 0.5% of pregnancies and requires immediate medical attention.

If bleeding is associated with pain, you should go to the hospital because the possible causes include Premature Labour and other conditions that your doctor will check for.

Bleeding After Delivery
Bleeding after delivery is usually because of a mild infection of the womb called Endometritis. This is sometimes associated with Retained Products of Conception ie some placenta tissue may have remained inside the womb to cause the bleeding. A minor surgery called an evacuation of the uterus as well as antibiotics will be needed to treat the bleeding.