Coping with Chronic Health Conditions: Tips

Bleeding While Pregnant? Causes And Treatment

13 December 2019 by Freddie Cox

Pregnancy can be a wonderful experience for many. Unfortunately, complications do arise in some cases, affecting your underlying health and the health of your unborn child. Thankfully, help is available in most cases, but you do need to know when medical assistance is needed. Bleeding, for example, during your pregnancy is not always a sign of distress, but it should be addressed. This guide will help you understand the causes and treatment options if you are experiencing bleeding during your pregnancy.

Causes

It is important to note that spotting and light bleeding is common during the first part of your pregnancy. In most cases, this spotting is due to hormonal fluctuations and pressure/changes in the uterus and cervix. Spotting is classified as a few drops/spots of blood on the underwear or panty liner.

Even though it is normal and most likely not a problem, let your obstetrician know if you are experiencing any spotting and light bleeding. This way, you and your doctor can monitor the bleeding throughout the pregnancy.

Infections are another common cause of bleeding during pregnancy. If you notice a small amount of blood, you may have a vaginal infection, such as bacterial vaginosis, a yeast infection that has caused inflammation, or even a urinary tract infection.

If you are experiencing bleeding that seems excessive or throughout the middle and end stages of your pregnancy, consult your doctor immediately.

Heavy bleeding could be a sign of a more serious problem, such as a miscarriage or an ectopic pregnancy, which is a pregnancy that occurs in the fallopian tubes instead of the uterus.

Treatment

Again, even though light spotting and bleeding is normal, make sure your doctor knows. By monitoring the spotting, you and your obstetrician will be able to detect potential problems affecting your health and pregnancy.

To reduce bleeding, avoid tampons and douching, which only cause more irritation. Wear a panty liner to protect your undergarments.

Your doctor may also swab your vaginal area and complete a urinalysis to determine if you have an infection. Antibiotics are the traditional treatment for infections, so your doctor will prescribe a dose that is safe to take while pregnant.

If your bleeding is more excessive or it is accompanied by pain, further testing will be necessary. An ultrasound can detect if you are at risk or currently in the process of miscarrying. In some cases, complete bed rest and various procedures can be used to stop the miscarriage. Speak with an obstetric professional to learn more. 

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