How to get Pregnant » Pregnancy Bleeding
Pregnancy Bleeding
Bleeding during pregnancy can be caused by a number of reasons, and may or may not signify a problem. Bleeding in the first trimester is considered common, and it isn't until it occurs in the second and third trimester that it becomes a cause for serious concern.
Possible Causes for Bleeding
Miscarriage is often pre-empted by bleeding and lower cramping in the abdominal area. However, that doesn't mean that all bleeding and cramping will lead to a miscarriage. Studies have shown that 15 to 20 percent of pregnancies in the first 12 weeks may result in a miscarriage, but only half of the women who are pregnant and experiencing some kind of bleeding will have a miscarriage. Having a miscarriage doesn't mean that any future pregnancies will end this way.
Other Causes and Symptoms
An ectopic pregnancy will cause bleeding and cramping. In this case the fertilized egg attaches itself to the fallopian tube outside the uterus, and is often referred to as a tubal pregnancy. A pregnant woman may experience sharp, stabbing pains in the abdominal area and vaginal bleeding. An ectopic pregnancy cannot be saved, and if it ruptures, the life of the mother can be in jeopardy. Often, it is hard to tell if a pregnancy is ectopic until symptoms show themselves.
Bleeding in the First Half of Pregnancy
Other than the previously mentioned causes for bleeding in pregnancy, there may be several other reasons for it to occur. If a woman has had an infection in the pelvic area or in the urinary tract, bleeding while pregnant can happen. Intercourse may cause slight bleeding if the cervix is tender. In this instance, sexual activity should be stopped until a doctor is consulted. Implantation bleeding is possible during the first few days after conception and the time it may last and amount of blood loss is different for each woman.
The Latter Half of Pregnancy and Bleeding
If the cervix becomes inflamed, minor bleeding may occur. A growth inside can also be a possible cause for pregnancy bleeding. Bleeding later on in the pregnancy can be cause for concern and result in possible risk to both the mother and baby. Placental Abruption, Placenta Previa, and Preterm labor may also cause bleeding. If bleeding occurs in the second or third trimester it should be brought immediately to the attention of the doctor. It may be nothing, but a pregnant woman is in no position to ignore irregular bleeding.
Bleeding at the End of Term
Along with bleeding during the pregnancy that can be worrisome, some bleeding may happen as the pregnancy nears the end. The cervix is thinning out and preparing for the labor process, and the mucus plug will become dislodged, allowing for some watery, blood tinged discharge. This is normal and no cause for concern. It is just the body's way of preparing for the birth of the baby. Speak with the doctor about any concerns that may be worrying you. The more you know about what to expect, the better you will feel.