6 Common Reasons for Spotting During Pregnancy

Some of the common reasons for spotting during pregnancy include sexual intercourse, Cervical Polyps, Implantation Bleeding, Vaginal Infection,Loss of Mucus Plug, Subchorionic Blood, Placenta Previa, to name a few

Finding out you are pregnant is a wonderful feeling. It may be the most joyous and memorable day of your life. It also brings forth fears, as you don’t want any problems with your pregnancy and want to ensure your baby develops healthy. So, if you notice spotting during pregnancy, it will worry you and raise alarm bells.

However, the American Pregnancy Association states that around 20 percent women report spotting during the initial 12 weeks of their pregnancy and is a common occurrence. So, does that mean you have nothing to worry about?

# Sexual Intercourse

When you get pregnant, the blood flow to the cervix increases. So, right after sexual intercourse you may experience spotting.

# Cervical Polyps

If you have polyps in your cervix, which are non-cancerous growths in the cervix, can rupture after sexual intercourse, leading to light bleeding.

# Internal Examination

If your OB/GYN conducts an internal examination, it can cause light bleeding or spotting. Remember, your cervix is filled with blood vessels and even a slight bump of the finger will cause the vessels to rupture.

# Implantation Bleeding

When the fertilized egg makes its way to the uterus and attaches itself, it can result in spotting. It occurs in about 20 to 30 percent of pregnant women. This light bleeding is referred to as implantation bleeding and often occurs just before the date of your menstrual period.

# Vaginal Infection

Some pregnant women are prone to vaginal infection, like bacterial vaginosis. This infection irritates and inflames the cervix, causing the light bleeding. It requires treatment to get rid of the infection and have a healthy and safe pregnancy.

# Loss of Mucus Plug

This occurs in the later stages of the pregnancy. Usually, you will notice the sticky mucus plug streaked with blood. If this occurs, it shows you are going into labor and should immediately contact your OB/GYN and go to the hospital.