What is the Spotting in Pregnancy
What could be more disturbing than seeing blood at a time when you are nurturing a new life? Experiencing blood spotting in pregnancy can cause fear, worry, and anxiety for expectant mothers. It can also make you question whether everything is alright with their baby or not. However, it’s completely natural to worry, as miscarriage is often the first thought that comes to mind.
In this context, you need to understand that spotting doesn’t always bring a red flag. There can be many reasons why you may be bleeding or spotting during pregnancy. Some reasons might be serious, while others might not. So, if you’re curious to know the reasons for spotting during pregnancy, this blog is dedicated to you.
In this blog, we’ll dive deeper into the signs and causes of spotting in pregnancy. But, first you need to understand the difference between spotting and bleeding.
Table of Contents
Pregnancy Spotting Vs. Period Bleeding:
#1. Spotting
If you’re experiencing blood spotting in pregnancy, don’t panic. Yes, it is not always a sign of miscarriage or anything serious. From the time you get pregnant to right before you give birth, spotting in pregnancy can happen anytime.
#2. Bleeding
The main difference between spotting and bleeding is the quantity of blood. Bleeding is a heavier flow of blood, even if it is light in color, but it is usually stable and lasts for several days. Bleeding means a heavy flow of blood which can stain a sanitary napkin. It is red in color, and may include clots.
Most Common Cause of Spotting in Pregnancy:
Bleeding or Spotting in early pregnancy is quite common. Approximately, 15% to 25% of pregnant women have experienced the same in the first 12 weeks of pregnancy. Even though it’s common, you should still consult with your gynaecologist to know if you may experience the same.
#1. Spotting in the First Trimester
According to the study conducted by American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, bleeding in the first trimester occurs in 15 to 25 out of every 100 pregnancies. This usually happens in the sixth and seventh weeks of pregnancy, but it does not always mean miscarriage or a sign of something wrong. However, there are various factors which can be responsible this, including :
#2. Implantation Bleeding
It happens between 6 to 12 days after conception, and is a sign that the embryo or fertilised egg attaches to the lining of the uterus. If spotting happens during the first trimester, it is usually light pink or brown in color and lasts between a few hours to a few days. In which case, you don’t require a sanitary napkin. Most pregnant women have experienced the same, but for some women, it is an early symptom of pregnancy.
#3. Ectopic Pregnancy
Ectopic Pregnancy is a medical emergency, where the fertilized egg implants outside the uterus, usually in a fallopian tube. Fallopian tubes are those tubes are connected to ovaries to the womb. If the fertilized egg gets attached to them, it won’t develop into a baby.
In this medical condition, your health may be at risk if you continue your pregnancy. You may experience vaginal spotting, abdominal pain, fainting, dizziness and more. If you experience these signs, contact your doctor immediately.
#4. Miscarriage or Early Pregnancy Loss
Most miscarriages occur in the first 13 weeks of the pregnancy. So, if you experience spotting and vaginal bleeding in bright red color or brown, contact your doctor immediately. You may also experience various signs, such as- back pain, cramp, passing tissue with clot and more.
A decline in HCG levels indicate miscarriage or pregnancy loss. However, having a miscarriage doesn’t necessarily affect your next pregnancy in future.
#5. Other Unknown Factors
Spotting may also happen due to hormonal changes, cervical changes, or after intercourse. However, infection is another possible cause, so it’s important for you to consult your doctor to rule out serious issues.
#6. Spotting in the Second Trimester
If you experience light spotting in your second trimester, it may be caused by cervical irritation, often after sex or an exam. It is usually not a concern. Cervical polyps and harmless growths can also cause spotting. But, if you get heavy vaginal bleeding like menstrual period, contact your doctor immediately, it may be a sign of major concern, including :
#7. Placenta Previa
The placenta plays a vital role in providing nutrients and oxygen to the baby and removing waste. Early in pregnancy, it is low in the uterus, but as the uterus grows, it usually moves up. If it remains low and covers the cervix, it’s called placenta previa, which can lead to bleeding during pregnancy or delivery.
#8. Premature labor
Sporting or bleeding during the second trimester of pregnancy can also be a sign of preterm labor. It happens when labor starts before 37 weeks of pregnancy. However, light spotting or bleeding is usually not associated with preterm labor. You may experience a few discomforts, such as change in vaginal discharge, pelvic or lower abdominal pressure, constant, low, dull backache, mild abdominal cramps, and more.
#10. Late Miscarriage
Spotting and bleeding are also common symptoms of late miscarriage. Along with that, you may also experience severe cramps, and in some cases, your water bag may break. So, if you experience these signs, contact your doctor immediately.
#11. Spotting In the Third Trimester
Bleeding or spotting in light red or brown during the third trimester can occur due to sex or a cervical exam. In most cases, it is common and not usually a cause for concern. It can also be due to a bloody show’ which is a sign that labor may be starting. If you’re experiencing heavy vaginal bleeding, you can contact your doctor as soon as possible, it may be a sign of major concern. It could be caused by :
#12. Placenta Previa
Placenta previa can cause spotting or bleeding during your third trimester of pregnancy. You may experience bright red vaginal bleeding without pain. It usually happens after 20 weeks of pregnancy. It can be triggered by sex, a medical exam, or uterine contractions.
#13. Placental Abruption
Placental abruption is most likely to occur in the third trimester of pregnancy. It happens, especially in the last few weeks before birth. In which, you may experience few signs, such as vaginal bleeding, although there may be no blood, but have abdominal pain.
#14. Vasa Previa
In most cases, pregnant women may notice painless vaginal bleeding in their third trimester. The blood may be a darker red, which can be a sign that it’s fetal blood instead of your own. Contact your doctor immediately if you notice bleeding during pregnancy, with or without pain.
When do you need to consult with your Doctor?
If you’re experiencing spotting during pregnancy that isn’t implant bleeding or doesn’t stop after a few hours, you need to consult with your doctor. Your doctor might perform a vaginal exam to assess the bleeding and an abdominal or vaginal ultrasound to check the embryo’s development and heartbeat. She may also perform an HCG blood test to confirm a standard pregnancy or rule out an ectopic pregnancy or miscarriage. In case of any concerns or queries make sure to always consult with your gynaecologist. At the CK Birla Hospital our award winning team of OBGYN experts use a hands-on approach for every pregnancy, so that the expectant mother can have a smooth and hassle-free pregnancy. To book a consultation click here.
FAQs Around Spotting in Pregnancy
Is it okay to have light Spotting when Pregnant?
Yes, light spotting can be normal during pregnancy, especially in the first trimester. It may be caused by implantation, hormonal changes, or cervical irritation. However, it’s always best to consult your doctor to rule out any complications.
When does Pregnancy Spotting start?
Pregnancy spotting can start as early as six to twelve days after conception, often referred to as implantation bleeding. This occurs when the fertilized egg attaches to the uterine lining. Spotting can also happen later in pregnancy due to various reasons, such as cervical irritation or hormonal changes. If you experience spotting, it’s important to consult your doctor for guidance.
How much spotting is normal during Early Pregnancy?
In early pregnancy, light spotting—typically light pink or brown in color—is generally considered normal. It should be minimal and not enough to fill a pad or tampon. If the spotting is heavier, bright red, or accompanied by pain or other concerning symptoms, it’s important to consult your doctor for evaluation.