During pregnancy, vaginal bleeding refers to any discharge of blood from the vagina. It can occur at any moment between conception (when the egg is fertilized) and the conclusion of the pregnancy. During the first 20 weeks of pregnancy, some women have vaginal bleeding.
What Is the Distinction Between Spotting and Bleeding?
Spotting is when you detect a few drops of blood on your underwear every now and then. It is insufficient to cover a panty liner. Bleeding is characterized by a greater flow of blood. When you're bleeding, you'll need a liner or pad to keep the blood from seeping through your clothes. During one of your early prenatal visits, ask your healthcare expert about the difference between spotting and bleeding.
What causes early pregnancy bleeding or spotting?
At the start of pregnancy, spotting or bleeding is usual. Bleeding or spotting may be a non-issue in the first trimester. It can be brought on by:
- Having sexual relations
- A bacterial infection
- Implantation. When a fertilized egg (embryo) adheres to the uterine (womb) lining and begins to grow.
- Changes in hormone levels. Hormones are substances produced by the human body.
- Cervical alterations the cervix connects to the uterus, which is located at the top of the vagina.
- Smoking-related issues. If you smoke, it's better to quit before or as soon as you find out you're pregnant.
- Certain forms of pregnancy testing, such as amniocentesis and chorionic villus sampling (CVS). These are tests that are performed on your newborn to look for genetic abnormalities. Genetic abnormalities are changes in the genes that are handed down from mother or father to child. These genetic alterations can result in health issues for a baby.
Vaginal bleeding is uncommon during pregnancy. However, it can happen for a variety of causes. It could be the result of anything serious or insignificant. Early pregnancy is characterized by light spotting (bleeding). This is the stage at which the fertilized egg installs itself in the uterus. Bleeding that continues throughout the pregnancy, on the other hand, is unusual. If you are bleeding profusely, contact your healthcare expert right away.
More vaginal discharge is usual during pregnancy. This helps to keep infections from spreading from the vagina to the womb. The volume of discharge rises as the pregnancy progresses. It may contain streaks of sticky, jelly-like pink mucus in the last week or so of pregnancy. This is known as a "show," and it occurs when the mucus that has been present in your cervix during pregnancy leaks out.
It's a sign that the body is getting ready to give birth. You may have a few minor "shows" in the days leading up to your due date.
Health Care at Home
Avoid sexual intercourse until your provider advises you that it is safe to resume intercourse.
If the bleeding and cramping are severe, only drink fluids.
You may need to reduce your activity level or be placed on bed rest at home.
- Bed rest at home may be necessary for the remainder of your pregnancy or until the bleeding ceases.
- The bed rest may be finished.
- You might be able to get up to use the restroom, move around the house, or do minor housework.
In most circumstances, no medication is required. DO NOT TAKE ANY MEDICINE WITHOUT FIRST CONSULTING WITH YOUR PROVIDER. Discuss with your healthcare expert what to watch for, such as the volume of bleeding and the colour of the blood.
Reference
- https://www.nhs.uk/pregnancy/related-conditions/common-symptoms/vaginal-bleeding/
- https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/003264.htm
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/symptoms/bleeding-during-pregnancy/basics/when-to-see-doctor/sym-20050636