6 Major Causes Of Bleeding During Pregnancy

Spotting or vaginal bleeding during pregnancy can be quite scary. But it’s not as uncommon as you might think. In fact, bleeding occurs during the first trimester in around 15 to 25% pregnancies. So is bleeding during pregnancy a given or should you be worried? The answer is that it depends.

In some cases, bleeding during pregnancy can be quite harmless, while in others it may be caused by a serious condition that may pose a risk to the baby’s and your well-being. Typically, bleeding that occurs during the second or third trimester is more likely to be caused by a complication. Let’s take a closer at various factors that may cause bleeding while you’re expecting.

# Implantation Bleeding

You might have spotting or light bleeding around 1–2 weeks after fertilization, when the fetus implants itself in the wall of your uterus. This is known as implantation bleeding and usually occurs around the time your first period would have been due after conception.

# Cervical Bleeding

When you become pregnant, blood supply to the womb and cervix increases and more and more blood vessels develop in the area. Because of this, your cervix is more prone to bleeding during pregnancy and becomes a “friable” cervix which can be irritated or injured easily. You may, for instance, notice light bleeding or spotting after a pelvic exam, pap test, or sexual intercourse. Refrain from sexual intercourse before a physical examination, so you can prevent further irritation to the cervix.

# Infections

Certain infections that cause vaginal bleeding may also be responsible for bleeding during pregnancy. This may include sexually transmitted infections such as chlamydia or gonorrhea or infections such as thrush or bacterial vaginosis. Other signs of an infection may include pain or a burning sensation after urination, abnormal vaginal discharge, and pain during sex.

# Ectopic Pregnancy

In some cases, a fertilized egg doesn’t implant in the uterus. Instead, it implants elsewhere, often in your fallopian tube. This is known as an ectopic pregnancy. During an ectopic pregnancy, the fallopian tube can rupture and cause internal bleeding. Blood loss may then lead to weakness, pain, fainting, and shock. It can even be fatal in some cases.

# Molar Pregnancy

In some cases, a baby doesn’t develop properly in the womb and you may see a growth of a clump of abnormal cells instead of a fetus. In many cases, this may not cause any symptoms and may only be detected during an ultrasound. However, some women may experience vaginal bleeding with or without tiny lumps similar to grapes. Other signs of a molar pregnancy may include severe morning sickness or an abnormally swollen tummy. Your doctor will usually remove the abnormal cell growth if you have this condition.

# Miscarriage

Cramping and bleeding can be signs of loss of a pregnancy or miscarriage. Vaginal bleeding later in the pregnancy can also point toward a miscarriage. However, miscarriages are rarer after the 3rd month. Also, do keep in mind that around 50% of women who miscarry do not experience bleeding, so it’s not the only indication.