According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, about 15-20% of women will experience bleeding during their first trimester of pregnancy. Bleeding during pregnancy can be caused by a variety of factors. Here are 5 common reasons you may experience bleeding, plus some guidelines for when to contact your doctor. Remember, when in doubt, reach out to your healthcare provider.
1. Implantation bleeding
Implantation bleeding occurs with up to one third of pregnancies. Many women confuse implantation bleeding with a period. However, implantation bleeding is a lighter flow than a normal period (usually light spotting) that only lasts 1-2 days and occurs about a week before your period is due.
What causes implantation bleeding? Implantation bleeding can occur as the fertilized egg attaches to the uterine wall, disrupting established blood vessels.
If you are not sure what type of bleeding you’re experiencing, the American Pregnancy Association recommends “waiting three days after the bleeding/spotting stops before taking a pregnancy test.” Taking a pregnancy test sooner may not give you conclusive results. Questions? Ask your doctor.
2. Sexual Intercourse
Sex is usually safe during pregnancy. However, as your hormones fluctuate, your cervix may become extra sensitive, causing you to bleed after intercourse. If this occurs, you should not have sex until you see a doctor and they give you the green light.
3. Internal Exam
Your cervix is very sensitive during pregnancy, so you may experience light bleeding after an internal exam. Contact your doctor if you experience heavy bleeding, or bleeding that lasts more than a day.
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4. Ectopic Pregnancy
An ectopic pregnancy occurs when the fertilized egg attaches to a fallopian tube or other structure besides the uterus. Approximately 2% of all pregnancies are ectopic.
You may be at higher risk for an ectopic pregnancy if you have pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), endometriosis, or have had a previous ectopic pregnancy (see the American Pregnancy website for a more comprehensive list of risk factors).
If you experience bleeding accompanied by severe abdominal pain, this may be a sign that your fallopian tube has ruptured. Seek medical care immediately – internal bleeding can be life-threatening if not treated.
5. Miscarriage
Although bleeding during pregnancy can have many causes and is not always serious, in some cases it can be a sign of a miscarriage. Miscarriages actually happen in about 20% of all conceived pregnancies.
You should see your doctor if the bleeding lasts more than one day, is heavier than one maxi pad per hour, or accompanied by heavy cramps.
When in Doubt, Ask Your Doctor
Remember, bleeding during pregnancy can happen, and is not always serious. However, you should always let your doctor know about bleeding you experience during pregnancy. Your doctor will help you determine if any steps need to be taken to protect you and your baby.
Get the Information You Need for Your Pregnancy
There’s a lot to keep track of during your pregnancy. It’s natural to have a lot of questions. That’s why we’ve created Your Guide to a Healthy Pregnancy. Get the information you need to take care of yourself and your baby, based on our expertise as women’s healthcare providers.