Things you need to know
-Spotting and bleeding in pregnancy is normal and common.
-Not all bleedings and spottings are an indication of something wrong, but they could imply some health concern for you or the baby.
-Bleeding during the first trimester could result in something serious, so it is vital to be extra careful during this time.
Difference between bleeding and spotting
Spotting in simple terms is very light bleeding, light enough that you wouldn’t need to change your underwear. It is just a few drops of blood on your underwear.
On the other hand, bleeding is when blood flow is heavier than usual and to control the flow, you need a sanitary napkin or a panty liner to soak the blood.
Possible causes of vaginal bleeding during the first trimester
Ectopic pregnancy
It is a term used to describe a pregnancy where the egg fertilised implants outside the uterus. Light vaginal bleeding and pelvic pain are early signs of ectopic pregnancy.
Miscarriage
Miscarriage is a sudden loss of pregnancy before reaching the 20th week. Miscarriage is characterised by vaginal bleeding and lower stomach (abdominal) discomfort.
Molar pregnancy
At first glance, a molar pregnancy may appear normal, however, the majority of molar pregnancies have specific signs and symptoms. Molar pregnancy could result in dark red vaginal bleeding around the first trimester and also lead to vomiting and severe nausea.
Cervical infection
During pregnancy, any infection of the cervix can cause bleeding in the first trimester.
Bleeding after implantation
It occurs about 10 to 14 days after conception when the fertilised egg implants in the lining of the uterus. Implantation bleeding is very light spotting that is sometimes mistaken as light periods. This type of bleeding does not require any treatment and stops independently. Consult a specialist if the situation worsens.
Possible causes of vaginal bleeding during the second and third trimester
Placental abruption
Placental abruption is when the placenta develops in the uterus during pregnancy. It attaches to the uterus wall and supplies the baby with nutrients and oxygen. The abruption can decrease or block the supply of oxygen and nutrients to the baby and lead to heavy bleeding in the mother.
Placenta previa
Placenta Previa is when the placenta is partially or completed over the lower uterine area resulting in severe bleeding during pregnancy.
Uterine ruptures
The uterus bursts open along the scar line from a previous C-section, causing the uterine to rupture and bleed.
Light spotting or bleeding is normal, especially during the first trimester. If it increases, consult your doctor immediately.
No, bleeding in the first trimester could result from various possible reasons and does not surely mean miscarriage.
You may see light spotting or bleeding after implantation, which is commonly known as an implantation bleed, caused by the fertilised egg in the uterus lining.
