Early Pregnancy Bleeding with Clots: Understanding Risks and Treatment Options
What are the causes of blood clots during pregnancy. How can pregnant women prevent blood clots. What are the signs of a blood clot during pregnancy. How is anemia treated during pregnancy.
Blood Clots in Pregnancy: Increased Risk and Potential Complications
Pregnancy brings about numerous physiological changes in a woman’s body, including an increased risk of blood clots. Pregnant women are approximately five times more likely to develop blood clots compared to their non-pregnant counterparts. This elevated risk persists for several weeks following delivery, making it crucial for expectant mothers to be aware of the potential dangers and preventive measures.
Blood clots typically form in the legs or the internal veins of the pelvis and abdomen, a condition known as deep vein thrombosis (DVT). In some cases, these clots can migrate to the lungs, resulting in a pulmonary embolism – a serious threat to both mother and baby.
Why does pregnancy increase the risk of blood clots?
Several factors contribute to the increased risk of blood clots during pregnancy:
- Natural defense mechanism: The body’s tendency to form clots increases as a protective measure against excessive bleeding during childbirth.
- Uterine compression: The growing uterus compresses large veins, leading to blood pooling and a higher likelihood of clot formation.
- Reduced mobility: Pregnancy often results in decreased physical activity, which can contribute to blood stasis and clot formation.
- Underlying clotting disorders: Some women may have a genetic predisposition to clotting, which becomes more pronounced during pregnancy.
Recognizing the signs of a blood clot during pregnancy
While some swelling in the legs is normal during pregnancy, certain symptoms may indicate the presence of a blood clot:
- Painful swelling or redness in the legs
- Sudden shortness of breath
- Chest pain
If you experience any of these symptoms, it is crucial to seek medical attention immediately.
Preventing and Treating Blood Clots in Pregnant Women
Preventing blood clots during pregnancy is essential for maintaining the health of both mother and baby. Here are some strategies that pregnant women can employ to reduce their risk:
- Stay active: Regular, gentle exercise can help improve circulation and reduce the risk of clot formation.
- Avoid prolonged immobility: Take frequent breaks to move around, especially during long trips or periods of bed rest.
- Maintain a healthy weight: Excessive weight gain during pregnancy can increase the risk of blood clots.
- Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water to maintain good blood flow.
- Take prenatal vitamins: These supplements can help support overall health and reduce the risk of complications.
- Wear compression stockings: For women with leg swelling, compression stockings can aid in returning blood flow to the heart.
Treatment options for blood clots during pregnancy
When blood clots do occur during pregnancy, they can be treated with anticoagulant medications. The most commonly used options are:
- Heparin
- Low molecular weight heparin
It is important to note that certain blood thinners, such as warfarin, are contraindicated during pregnancy due to potential risks to the developing fetus.
Bleeding During Pregnancy: Causes and Concerns
Bleeding during pregnancy can be a source of anxiety for many expectant mothers. While early pregnancy bleeding is relatively common and often not a cause for concern, bleeding during the second and third trimesters may indicate a more serious health issue.
Early pregnancy bleeding
Bleeding during the first trimester is experienced by many women and can have various causes, including:
- Implantation bleeding
- Cervical changes
- Subchorionic hematoma
- Ectopic pregnancy
- Miscarriage
While some causes are benign, others may require medical attention. It is always advisable to consult with a healthcare provider if you experience any bleeding during pregnancy.
Late pregnancy bleeding
Bleeding during the second and third trimesters is less common and may indicate more serious complications, such as:
- Placenta previa
- Placental abruption
- Preterm labor
- Vasa previa
Late pregnancy bleeding should always be evaluated by a medical professional to ensure the safety of both mother and baby.
Hematologic Conditions Affecting Pregnancy
Several blood-related conditions can impact pregnancy and require careful management. Understanding these conditions is crucial for expectant mothers and healthcare providers alike.
Gestational Thrombocytopenia
Gestational thrombocytopenia affects up to 15 percent of pregnant women, typically developing in the third trimester. This condition is characterized by a low blood platelet count but is generally mild and does not require treatment.
Immune Thrombocytopenia (ITP) During Pregnancy
ITP is an autoimmune disease in which platelet cells are attacked by antibodies. This condition can pose risks to both mother and baby if platelet counts become very low. Symptoms may include:
- Spotting late in pregnancy
- Increased bruising
- Petechial hemorrhaging (appearing as a bright red rash, particularly on the legs)
Treatment for ITP during pregnancy depends on the severity of symptoms and platelet counts. In some cases, drugs or proteins that increase platelet counts may be necessary.
Inherited Bleeding Disorders and Pregnancy
A small percentage of pregnant women have inherited bleeding disorders such as Von Willebrand disease or inherited platelet function disorders. These conditions require careful management throughout pregnancy to minimize the risk of complications.
Anemia During Pregnancy: Types, Symptoms, and Treatment
Anemia is a common condition during pregnancy, characterized by low red blood cell counts and reduced oxygen delivery to the body. Pregnant women with anemia may experience symptoms such as:
- Fatigue
- Weakness
- Pale skin
- Rapid heartbeat
Types of Anemia in Pregnancy
There are several types of anemia that can affect pregnant women:
- Dilutional Anemia: Caused by the expansion of blood plasma volume during pregnancy, particularly noticeable in the third trimester. This type is generally mild and does not require treatment.
- Iron and/or Folate Deficiency: Pregnant women have increased requirements for iron and folate, especially those who have had multiple pregnancies. Deficiencies in these nutrients can lead to anemia.
- Inherited Anemia Disorders: Conditions such as sickle cell disease can worsen during pregnancy and may pose serious risks to both mother and baby.
Treatment of Anemia During Pregnancy
The treatment approach for anemia during pregnancy depends on the underlying cause and severity of the condition:
- Dilutional anemia typically does not require treatment.
- Iron and folate deficiencies can be addressed through dietary changes and supplementation.
- Severe anemia may require iron and folate replacement therapy.
- Inherited anemia disorders often necessitate specialized care and close monitoring throughout pregnancy.
Managing Blood Disorders During Pregnancy: A Multidisciplinary Approach
Given the complexity of blood disorders and their potential impact on pregnancy, a multidisciplinary approach to care is often necessary. This may involve collaboration between obstetricians, hematologists, and other specialists to ensure the best possible outcomes for both mother and baby.
The importance of preconception counseling
For women with known blood disorders or a family history of such conditions, preconception counseling can play a crucial role in preparing for a healthy pregnancy. This may include:
- Genetic testing
- Optimization of medication regimens
- Discussion of potential risks and management strategies
Monitoring and management throughout pregnancy
Women with blood disorders or those who develop complications during pregnancy may require more frequent monitoring and specialized care. This can include:
- Regular blood tests
- Fetal monitoring
- Medication adjustments
- Specialized delivery planning
Postpartum Care for Women with Blood Disorders
The postpartum period is a critical time for women with blood disorders, as the risk of complications can persist for several weeks after delivery. Key aspects of postpartum care may include:
- Continued monitoring of blood counts and clotting factors
- Thromboprophylaxis for women at high risk of blood clots
- Management of bleeding disorders during the postpartum period
- Close follow-up with hematology specialists
Breastfeeding considerations
Women with blood disorders who wish to breastfeed may need to consider the potential impact of medications on their infant. Consultation with a lactation specialist and healthcare providers can help determine the safest approach for both mother and baby.
Advances in Research and Treatment of Blood Disorders in Pregnancy
The field of maternal-fetal medicine and hematology continues to evolve, with ongoing research aimed at improving outcomes for pregnant women with blood disorders. Some areas of focus include:
- Development of safer anticoagulation options for use during pregnancy
- Improved diagnostic tools for detecting blood disorders in early pregnancy
- Novel treatments for inherited blood disorders that can be safely used during gestation
- Enhanced understanding of the long-term effects of blood disorders on maternal and fetal health
The role of genetic counseling and testing
As our understanding of the genetic basis of many blood disorders improves, genetic counseling and testing are becoming increasingly important components of preconception and prenatal care. These services can help couples make informed decisions about family planning and prepare for potential complications during pregnancy.
In conclusion, blood disorders during pregnancy present unique challenges that require specialized care and attention. By understanding the risks, recognizing the symptoms, and working closely with healthcare providers, women with blood disorders can navigate pregnancy safely and successfully. Ongoing research and advances in treatment options continue to improve outcomes for both mothers and babies affected by these conditions.
Pregnancy, Menstruation & Blood Disorders Treatment
Women face several blood-related health issues. Pregnancy increases the risk of some blood problems. In addition, pre-existing blood disorders may become more problematic during pregnancy. Heavy menstruation can sometimes be caused by an underlying bleeding disorder.
Blood Clots During Pregnancy
Pregnant women are approximately five times more likely to develop a blood clot than other women. Blood clots remain a risk for a few weeks after delivery. Clots typically form in the legs or the internal veins of the pelvis or abdomen (deep vein thrombosis). Clots that migrate to the lungs (pulmonary embolism) can be a serious threat to the mother and her baby. Learn more about clotting disorders.
Causes of Blood Clots During Pregnancy
Normal pregnancy produces an increased tendency toward clotting as a natural defense against bleeding during childbirth. In addition, the pregnant uterus compresses several large veins, which increases the pooling of blood and raises the risk of a clot. As with the general population, immobility and long periods of bed rest can also make clots more likely. In addition, some women have an underlying tendency to clot due to a clotting disorder.
Signs of Blood Clot During Pregnancy
Swelling of the legs during pregnancy is normal. However, painful swelling or redness are not normal and could be symptoms of a deep vein thrombosis. Sudden shortness of breath or chest pain could be symptoms of pulmonary embolism.
Treating Blood Clots During Pregnancy
Blood clots that occur during pregnancy can be treated with heparin or low molecular weight heparin. Certain blood thinners, including warfarin, are contraindicated during pregnancy.
Preventing Blood Clots During Pregnancy
Pregnant women can reduce their risk of blood clots by staying active, avoiding long periods of immobility and avoiding excessive weight gain. It is important to drink enough water and take prenatal vitamins. For women with leg swelling, compression stockings can help return blood flow to the heart.
Bleeding During Pregnancy
Bleeding during early pregnancy is common, and it often is not a cause for concern. Bleeding during the second and third trimester is less common and can indicate a health problem. In some cases, late pregnancy bleeding is caused by a problem with the placenta. There are also several hematologic conditions that can lead to bleeding during pregnancy. Learn more about bleeding disorders.
Gestational Thrombocytopenia
Up to 15 percent of pregnant women develop thrombocytopenia (low blood platelet count). This condition usually develops in the third trimester. Gestational thrombocytopenia is generally very mild and does not need to be treated.
ITP During Pregnancy
Immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) is an autoimmune disease in which platelet cells are attacked by antibodies. If platelet counts become very low, this condition can put the mother’s health at risk (due to blood loss at birth) and sometimes put the baby’s health at risk as well. Symptoms include spotting late in the pregnancy and increased bruising. If platelet counts are very low, patients can experience petechial hemorrhaging, which appears as a bright red rash, particularly on the legs. ITP often does not need to be treated if platelet counts are low but the woman is not experiencing any bleeding problems. ITP that is producing bleeding symptoms can be treated with drugs or proteins that increase platelet counts.
Inherited Bleeding Disorders and Pregnancy
A small percentage of pregnant women have an inherited bleeding disorder such as Von Willebrand disease or an inherited platelet function disorder. These women have a baseline propensity to bleed, so it is important to manage the condition during pregnancy.
Anemia During Pregnancy
Anemia is caused by low red blood cell counts, resulting in lower levels of oxygen being delivered to the body. Symptoms of anemia in pregnant women can include tiredness, weakness, pale skin and rapid heartbeat. There are several causes of anemia during pregnancy:
Dilutional Anemia
The volume of plasma in the blood increases during pregnancy. This expansion dilutes the blood, resulting in anemia. Dilutional anemia is most noticeable during the third trimester. It is generally mild and does not need to be treated.
Iron and/or Folate Deficiency
Pregnant women require more dietary iron and folate (a natural form of vitamin B) than non-pregnant women, especially if they have had multiple pregnancies. Deficiency in either can cause anemia. Severe anemia can be treated with iron and folate replacement.
Inherited Anemia Disorders
Inherited anemia problems, such as sickle cell disease, can often become worse during pregnancy. Severe anemia caused by these disorders can pose a serious risk to both mother and baby. Women with congenital anemia disorders should receive close monitoring and careful management by an obstetrician and a hematologist.
Bleeding in the Fetus and Newborn
The fetus can be at risk of abnormal bleeding due to the mother’s inherited bleeding disorders or carrier state (e. g. von Willebrand’s disease or hemophilia). A fetus can also develop severe thrombocytopenia due to the mother becoming sensitized to platelet antigens. Depending on the cause of the fetal bleeding problem, blood or platelet transfusion, replacement coagulation factors, or other treatments are effective.
Abnormal Menstrual Bleeding
Heavy menstrual bleeding (also known as menorrhagia) is a very common problem. Symptoms include periods that last too long (more than 4 to 7 days), large amounts of blood and blood clots in the menstrual flow. Heavy periods may cause iron deficiency and anemia, as women lose blood faster than they can replace it. Women may also experience bleeding between periods (metorrhagia).
Menorrhagia can be caused by a structural reason, such as uterine fibroids. Many women with heavy periods have an unrecognized bleeding disorder such as Von Willebrand disease or a condition such as immune thrombocytopenia.
Blood Clotting Disorders and Pregnancy
What are Blood Clotting Disorders during Pregnancy?
Pregnancy increases women’s risk of blood clotting disorders. For women with a family history of clotting disorders, the risk is even greater.
They are also considered to be at high risk for pregnancy complications because they and the women in her family may have had a history of preeclampsia, pregnancy loss, blood clots in a leg or lung, a low-birth-weight baby, or placental abruption, where the placenta separates from the wall of the uterus before delivery.
Blood clots block arteries and blood vessels, diminishing or altogether preventing blood flow to essential organs. In pregnant women, this can include the placenta. When blood flow is interrupted in the placenta, the baby is starved of the nutrients and oxygen it needs for healthy development.
Risks of Clotting Disorders
Thrombophilia is a condition in which blood has an increased tendency to clot. The disease threatens the mother’s health, but it will cause other pregnancy complications, including:
- Intrauterine Growth Restriction (IUGR).
- Severe Preeclampsia.
- Miscarriage after 10 weeks.
- Placental abruption (the placenta separates from the uterine lining too soon).
- Stillbirth.
It’s important to remember that these are worst-case scenarios. Thrombophilia is very treatable, and with proper attention, women with blood clotting disorders during pregnancy can carry a healthy pregnancy to term. If clotting disorders, such as Deep Vein Thrombosis run in your family, try to get a detailed family medical history, and bring this information to your health care provider.
If you or someone in your family has had problems with blood clots, meet with your health care provider about getting a blood test to see if you have a thrombophilia. Your doctor will talk to you about ways you can manage your condition and reduce your risk.
Types of Clotting Disorders
Thrombophilia is hereditary, and there are several variations. The most common types are:
- Prothrombin G20210A mutation
- Pulmonary Embolism. An embolism is a blood clot that moves from where it formed to another place in the body.
- Factor V Leiden mutation
- Antithrombin deficiency. This inherited disorder greatly increases the chance of developing blood clots.
- Methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase C677 (“MTHFR”) mutation
- Protein S deficiency
- Protein C deficiency
Many patients don’t realize they’ve inherited a blood clotting disorder until a few weeks into their pregnancy when they start to develop symptoms. It’s even possible that no one in your family knows if there’s a family history of blood clots in the family.
Certain things make you more likely than others to have a blood clot. These are called risk factors. Having a risk factor doesn’t mean for sure that you’ll have a blood clot. But it may increase your chances. You may use birth control after pregnancy to help keep you from getting pregnant again. But some kinds of birth control, like the pill, may increase your risk of having blood clots and not be safe for you to use.
This is why it’s important to have regular physical check-ups with your doctor and to attend all of your prenatal appointments so that your health can be carefully monitored.
Treatment of Blood Clotting Disorders during Pregnancy
Because of the dangers, blood clots pose to a mother-to-be and her baby, it’s not uncommon for a doctor to prescribe blood thinners, throughout the pregnancy and up to 8 weeks after delivery. Anti-coagulants, like unfractionated heparin and low-molecular-weight heparin, are safe for the developing baby and are commonly prescribed for pregnant women.
There are many treatment plans and drugs available. You may be referred to a maternal-fetal specialist or a hematologist, who will work with you to determine the best regimen for you.
If you believe you are experiencing symptoms of, or suffering from any blood clotting disorders during pregnancy, or have questions about it, please discuss them with your doctor.
We also invite you to establish care with Dr. Aliabadi. Please click here to make an appointment or call us at (844) 863- 6700.
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Highly-trained and honored by the medical community, Dr. Thais Aliabadi is certified by the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology and a Diplomat of the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology. She implements the most advanced, state-of-the-art technology and treatment options. Dr. Aliabadi specializes in up-to-date, minimally invasive surgical techniques, promising her patients shorter recovery times, reduced pain, and the least interruption to their daily lives.
Supported by her warm professional team, Dr. Aliabadi treats women through all phases of life and cherishes the special one-on-one relationship between patient and doctor.
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Blood Clotting Disorders | Pavilion for Women
Blood clotting disorders are conditions that cause excessive clotting, limiting or blocking normal blood flow. If you have a blood clotting disorder, your blood may clot too easily or the clots may not dissolve normally and can break off and travel to other parts of the body.
During pregnancy, blood clotting disorders can pose serious risks to the mother and baby.
Understanding Your Risks
Blood clots during pregnancy are a leading cause of maternal death in the United States.
Pregnancy itself increases the risk of developing blood clots.
Your risk of developing blood clots during pregnancy is further increased by:
The Dangers of Blood Clots
Blood clots can be stationary and block blood flow (known as a thrombosis) or they can break loose and travel through the bloodstream to other parts of the body (known as an embolism).
In pregnant women, blood clots most often develop in the deep veins of the legs or pelvis, a dangerous condition known as deep vein thrombosis (DVT). If part of the clot breaks free, it can travel to the lungs, a life-threatening condition known as pulmonary embolism.
Much less commonly, blood clots can also travel through your bloodstream to other major organs, including the brain, causing a stroke, or the heart, causing a heart attack.
Blood clots are typically diagnosed through imaging tests, including ultrasound, CT scans and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
Treatment of Blood Clots during Pregnancy
Treatment depends on the woman’s condition, her history of blood clots and her pregnancy. In general, treatment may include:
- Specialized obstetric care
- Blood thinners that are considered safe during pregnancy
- Close monitoring for early detection and treatment of blood clots
- A multidisciplinary health care team that may include a hematologist (a specialist in treating blood disorders), an anesthesiologist experienced in pregnancies with clotting disorders, and a specialist in critical care medicine, if needed
- A carefully planned delivery
- Testing for inherited clotting disorders, if indicated
- Delivery at a state-of-the-art facility equipped to respond to emergencies during and after childbirth
Benefits of Specialized Care
Texas Children’s Pavilion for Women offers specialized care to help women with clotting disorders achieve the safest, healthiest pregnancy possible.
Benefits include:
- Preconception counseling to assess and reduce maternal and fetal risks prior to pregnancy
- Prenatal consultation, evaluation and treatment by a maternal-fetal medicine specialist trained and experienced in the management of these high-risk pregnancies
- Advanced imaging for early detection and treatment of complications
- Delivery at the Pavilion for Women’s leading-edge facility, equipped to respond to life-threatening complications and emergencies, including 24/7 access to blood products and transfusion services
- Seamless access to Texas Children’s Hospital and specialists for babies who need extra care and monitoring, including the Texas Children’s Fetal Center®, Texas Children’s Newborn Center®, and level IV neonatal intensive care unit (NICU)
- Expert genetic counseling and the latest testing technologies, through the Prenatal Genetics Clinic at Baylor College of Medicine, the largest of its kind in the United States
- A multidisciplinary, collaborative team of specialists experienced in addressing the needs of mothers and babies in pregnancies with clotting disorders
- Close collaboration with your existing health care providers
Blood Clot During Pregnancy
A clot is formed by platelets in the blood clumping together to form a solid plug at the site of an injury, which reduces bleeding. Everyone’s blood is meant to clot (it’s how you keep from bleeding to death if you cut yourself while shaving). But during pregnancy, increased levels of estrogen means blood clots more readily. The clot itself isn’t necessarily the problem, it’s the location of the clot and what symptoms it may cause.
What are the signs of a blood clot?
In pregnant women, one of the primary areas for blood clots to form is in the deep veins of the legs. This is known as deep vein thrombosis, or DVT. You’ll notice this if one leg is more unusually swollen than the other. Other common symptoms include a pain behind the knee of a leg that feels warm to the touch. In other areas, you may feel pain due to a loss of oxygen to the region.
Are there any tests to determine if I have a blood clot?
In many cases, your doctor can look at the affected area through an ultrasound scan; if the blood clot is in the lungs, he can perform a spiral CT scan.
How did I get a blood clot?
All pregnant women are at risk, since estrogen levels naturally rise during pregnancy, but those who are put on bed rest, take a long flight or car trip, are obese, or have a genetic tendency to develop clots are all at higher risk.
How will my blood clot affect me and my baby?
The biggest danger of a blood clot is the risk that it can break off from its location and travel to the lungs, causing a potentially fatal condition called pulmonary embolism. Blood clots can also be dangerous to your baby — if they form inside the placenta, they may cut off blood flow to the fetus (see next page for treatment and prevention tips).
Related Video
What’s the best way to treat a blood clot?
If you develop a blood clot during pregnancy, you’ll likely be given a medication that’s an anticoagulant, that is, it helps prevent the blood from clotting. Warm compresses can also help to treat a clot that’s close to the skin’s surface.
What can I do to prevent a blood clot from forming?
If you’re taking a long trip (more than few hours), get up every 20 minutes or so and move about (you’ll probably be hitting the bathroom about that often anyway, depending on how late into the pregnancy you’re going). Cut down on the amount of salt in your diet, which can cause swelling, and try not to cross your legs for long periods of time. If you’re stuck home on bed rest, don’t use pillows under your knees and ask your doctor if there are any exercises you can do to cut down on your risk.
What do other pregnant moms do when they have blood clots?
“I’m pregnant through IUI and have some blood clotting issues in my uterus. My perinatal doctor put me on Lovenox and baby aspirin and doesn’t seem too concerned. I had some severe bleeding around week 12.”
“I had a blood clot in my uterus. I bled around week 7, but baby was fine. The doctor put me on a ton of prescription folic acid and a baby aspirin per day. As of now, the clot is shrinking and barely noticeable.”
“I was diagnosed last week with multiple blood clots in superficial veins. Without testing to see whether I might have a blood clotting disorder, the on-call OB wants me to take a baby aspirin daily until 20 weeks. ”
Are there any other resources for blood clots?
National Blood Clot Alliance
90,000 Blood clots during pregnancy 9,0001
In the overwhelming majority of all cases, with the onset of pregnancy, a woman normally stops her period. Therefore, any spotting in the early stages or spotting during pregnancy should alert you. There are some conditions when minor bleeding from the expectant mother is of a physiological nature and does not pose a danger. For example, implantation bleeding is the norm, when during the period of attachment of the ovum to the uterus, vaginal discharge may contain scant blotches of blood.
But in general, any bleeding during pregnancy should be a reason for urgent medical attention. And if it is also accompanied by the release of clots or if a blood clot just came out during pregnancy, then you need to go to the hospital urgently!
Even so, there is a possibility that everything is fine. However, firstly, it is not high (we will not reassure anyone), and secondly, very often dangerous processes can be stopped and reversed.But the outcome of an unfavorable situation largely depends on timely measures taken.
So, go to the doctor immediately. Meanwhile …
A blood clot came out during pregnancy
It happens that a woman suddenly notices that she has a large blood clot at once came out during pregnancy. Most often this happens while going to the toilet, when taking a shower or any degree of tension in the muscles of the perineum (when lifting a heavy one, when trying to get up, and so on). Usually, the release of the clot is accompanied by intensifying cramping pains: the uterus contracts to get rid of the “foreign body”.
The exact reason why a blood clot came out during pregnancy, and what it may be, can only be determined by a doctor. But, most likely, there is an early miscarriage: it is in the first days or weeks of gestation that this phenomenon occurs most often.
A blood clot in this case represents tissue fragments from which the fetal membranes and the embryo were formed. Even if a miscarriage has occurred, you should still contact the gynecology for cleaning, otherwise there is a risk of inflammation or infection (if the clot does not come out completely and some fragments of embryonic tissue remain in the uterine cavity).
It is no longer possible to maintain a pregnancy in the event of a miscarriage. But you don’t need to be upset either. Of course, this is very sad, but you cannot change anything. In addition, almost certainly the fetus had defects incompatible with life, and therefore there was no chance of its further development. After the recovery period and preparation for the next pregnancy, a woman can count on success. It will certainly come true!
Early pregnancy blood clots
By and large, any bleeding during gestation poses a threat to the fetus and may result in its rejection. Vaginal bleeding is the most prominent symptom of threatened abortion. If at the same time the blood is bright scarlet and especially if red clots come out, then you need to call an ambulance!
But the reasons for the appearance of blood clots during pregnancy can be different. When red or brown blood clots come out during pregnancy, the following dangerous conditions can be suspected by their appearance, quantity, color, as well as by the accompanying symptoms:
- Ectopic pregnancy.Signs of an ectopic do not differ much from uterine pregnancy, and therefore it is not always possible to identify pathology in advance. There are often cases when bleeding begins with blood clots – and you have to act on an emergency basis. The rupture of the fallopian tube may be preceded by acute pain radiating to the back or towards the attachment of the ovum, as well as nausea, vomiting, and dizziness.
- Frozen pregnancy. If the fetus turned out to be unviable – and the pregnancy froze, then the mother’s body will inevitably begin to get rid of the dead embryo. This process can be accompanied by pain in the lower abdomen, headaches, nausea, vomiting, malaise, weakness, fever. And, of course, spotting that begins a few days or weeks after the death of the embryo can also contain red blood clots.
- Detachment of the ovum or placenta. For a number of different reasons, the ovum (at an early stage) or the placenta (including at later stages of pregnancy) can begin to exfoliate prematurely, that is, detach from the place of its attachment.As a result, a bruise forms at the site of exfoliation – blood flows out of the damaged vessels. It can accumulate for some time in the depression, gathering into a clot. At the same time, it is not even necessary that bloody discharge will be released from the woman’s genital tract if the placenta is located normally, that is, there is no presentation, because in this case the blood accumulates between it and the uterus. But at some point, dark brown blood clots and smearing brown discharge during pregnancy begin to come out – this is precisely the hematoma formed as a result of detachment. A detachment is usually accompanied by pain and weakness. If placenta previa was diagnosed, then the spotting will have a bright red color of fresh blood without clots.
Such conditions are very dangerous and threaten with termination of pregnancy, loss of a child. That is why the woman is urgently hospitalized and treated to maintain the pregnancy. At a later date, the issue of early delivery is being resolved.
Blood clots in late pregnancy
Threat of miscarriage or detachment can form even in the third trimester of pregnancy.But in recent weeks, there is another reason why a woman can observe that she has small blood clots. We are talking about the discharge of the mucous plug before childbirth.
With the onset of pregnancy, the cervix is tightly clogged with cervical mucus, which reliably protects the fetus from external infections. But as the female body begins to prepare for the upcoming birth, the cervix softens – and the mucous plug comes off. This may not always be noticeable, because often the plug comes off while taking a shower, going to the toilet, or already during childbirth along with pouring water, and a woman may not even know what she looks like.But it also happens that a pregnant woman discovers a lump of mucus or a small amount of it on her laundry (if the cork comes off in parts), and this mucus may contain blotches of pink, beige, scarlet or brown blood, or even look like a uniformly colored blood clot. The passage of the plug means that childbirth is just around the corner.
Only in the latter case can you remain calm if a woman observes blood clots during pregnancy. In all the rest, it is necessary to urgently consult a doctor, that is, do not wait for a scheduled examination, but go to the hospital immediately! In a large proportion of cases where there is a threat of termination of pregnancy due to blood clots, the worst can be prevented.Therefore, in no case should one be inactive.
Pink blood clots during pregnancy
And finally, let’s talk about less dangerous conditions. Very often women notice pink discharge during pregnancy. As a rule, these are ordinary leucorrhoea, slightly pink in color. This happens with mechanical damage to small vessels, which often occurs after examining a woman in a gynecologist’s chair, after a transvaginal ultrasound scan, after intercourse, after a fall or other injury, and can also be observed against the background of a lack of progesterone or taking hormonal drugs.
Such allocations in most cases are not dangerous, but for reinsurance in the next few days it is better to exclude any physical and emotional stress. By the way, such discharge may contain streaks of red or brownish blood. But they never look like bleeding, but only look like impurities in normal vaginal discharge.
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Blood clots during pregnancy
Blood clots during pregnancy.Bloody discharge with clots during pregnancy
Among the many advantages of pregnancy as a physiological process and as a period in a woman’s life, it is indisputable that now for nine months you can forget about your period. If the pregnancy is proceeding normally, then there are no pads and pains in the lower abdomen, and for many it makes life much easier.
However, unfortunately, a successful pregnancy has recently become more the exception than the rule.Stress, nervous tension, living conditions and so on … All this affects the condition of the woman and, consequently, the developing fetus. It is worth worrying – and now there is a daub. The threat of termination of pregnancy is no longer something out of the ordinary for anyone, but rather, on the contrary, it becomes a regularity. Therefore, if you have bloody vaginal discharge, then do not hesitate and do not think – go to the doctor right away. And if also with blood clots … In general, this is not very good, of course, this should not be.Blood clots are bad harbingers.
Clots with a threat of miscarriage
The most indicative symptom of a threat of termination of pregnancy is bleeding. Blood clots can also come out of the vagina. If the bloody discharge is bright red, call an ambulance immediately or better, if possible, immediately go to the hospital, without waiting for the arrival of doctors.
You should be aware that in addition to bleeding, with a threat of miscarriage, a woman may experience colic and abdominal pain, weakness, body temperature is elevated, sometimes vomiting also joins.
Clots with hematoma
There may be a hematoma during pregnancy – then the discharge is dark brown. With a hematoma, the ovum exfoliates from the wall of the uterus and blood begins to collect in this place. In this case, dark, more often smearing vaginal discharge may also be accompanied by clots.
In any case, even if there is no bleeding, but blood with clots, this is bad. Don’t hesitate to visit your doctor. The likelihood of a miscarriage is especially high in early pregnancy.
Clots during spontaneous abortion
It’s hard to talk about it, but spontaneous miscarriages or abortions, alas, do happen quite often. The woman starts having cramping pains, which are constantly increasing. In this case, the cervix opens, and the uterus itself begins to contract, pushing the fetus. Everything is accompanied by a discharge of blood interspersed with blood clots and even fragments of tissue – the ovum exfoliates. In such cases, abortion is rarely avoided. After the fertilization product comes out (this is the name for the tissue coming out of the vagina in the form of a clot, from which the embryo should have formed), the contractions stop.This indicates that the miscarriage has taken place. Mostly this happens in the first days and weeks of pregnancy.
The danger of spontaneous abortion lies in the fact that not all tissues may come out, and the remnants of the ovum are still in the uterine cavity. Therefore, it is necessary to carry out curettage to prevent the development of serious infections and complications.
Clots with a frozen pregnancy
It happens that the fetus freezes in the womb. There are many factors that could be at fault for this.But it is not at all necessary that a woman immediately finds out about what happened, especially in the early stages, when there is still no movement. Usually, after several days, or even weeks after the freezing of the embryo, bleeding may open, accompanied by the release of blood clots.
Clots with thrombophlebitis
However, during pregnancy, other types of blood clots can appear – in the veins and blood vessels. We are talking about thrombophlebitis. The fact is that the blood of a pregnant woman also undergoes certain changes: in particular, the composition of the blood and the mechanisms of its coagulation change.Also, during this period, the woman’s blood circulation slows down somewhat – the growing tummy presses on the blood vessels. All this can be the reason for the appearance of blood clots in the vessels, which occurs in 1% of pregnant women. Therefore, if you have encountered a similar problem before, then you need to tell your gynecologist about this even when registering.
Do not worry too much if blood clots are visible on the surface of the legs – in the veins. This does not pose a particular danger, but it requires treatment: you will be prescribed analgesics, local heat, a bandage on your leg.You should consult a doctor, even if you do not observe clots close to the surface of the skin, in such cases: the legs are pale and cold, red streaks are visible above the veins, part of the leg may swell, become soft and hot, soreness in the leg.
White clots with thrush
When it comes to clots released from the vagina during pregnancy, it can also be white clots of mucus. If, at the same time, they have a curdled consistency and a characteristic sour smell, you have thrush.There is also a feeling of severe itching and even burning sensation in the vagina. During the carrying of a child, candidiasis simply attacks the weakened body of a woman. The disease can manifest itself in any of the trimesters, or it appears from the first days and does not pass until the very end of the term. It is imperative to heal before the onset of childbirth. Wear only natural underwear, lubricate the vagina with kefir, do not use soap for intimate hygiene – wash yourself with a soda solution. What else to do in such cases – read on our website.
Whatever the clots you have, you should still find out the reason for their appearance and do whatever is required in your situation. Don’t let such unpleasant things overshadow your pregnancy!
Special for beremennost.net – Elena Kichak
90,000 why blood clots come out, causes in the early and late stages, at week 5
Normal blood circulation is necessary for the full growth of the baby in the mother’s tummy. Any pathologies associated with impaired thrombus formation can disrupt the process of intrauterine development of the fetus and adversely affect the health of a pregnant woman.
What is it?
The constancy of the organism is impossible without maintaining a certain fluidity and density of blood. It should be liquid enough to penetrate well to all internal organs.
Blood thickening usually occurs in violation of the process of thrombus formation. A variety of reasons can lead to the development of this condition.
A clot, doctors call a thickened bloody “lump”, which is located inside the lumen of a blood vessel. Its structure is based on a huge number of platelets glued together by a special organic substance.
Normally, a healthy body always maintains a strict correspondence between the formation and death of platelets. This largely ensures the normal viscosity and fluidity of the blood. When pathologies arise in the maternal body, the blood becomes very “thick”, and various clots appear.
The most dangerous is their appearance in the large blood vessels that feed the fetus. This leads to the fact that all his vital processes are disrupted. In the early stages of bearing a baby, such a situation can lead to spontaneous miscarriage or the threat of termination of pregnancy.
The appearance of single blood clots in the very first weeks and months of pregnancy can be a completely physiological reaction . Some mothers have this condition quite often.
If a woman does not know that she is expecting a baby, then she may think that these clots are menstrual. This situation is possible, as a rule, in the first 5-6 weeks after conception.
If heavy bleeding occurs in the early stages of pregnancy, then this is already a very threatening situation, indicating the beginning of a possible spontaneous miscarriage.
In this case, the woman also develops other, very unfavorable symptoms. She may feel severe “dagger” pain in the lower abdomen. In severe cases, a woman loses consciousness from severe pain syndrome.
A spontaneous abortion can also happen after taking too hot and prolonged baths or going to the toilet. This situation is quite common in women with concomitant diseases of the reproductive organs.
Symptoms in this condition usually develop rapidly. The severity of bleeding can be quite severe.
How can this condition be dangerous?
Disorder of thrombus formation at 5-11 weeks of intrauterine development of the fetus is quite critical. At this time, the baby starts laying down all vital internal organs.
Violation of the blood supply to the fetus for up to 12 weeks can lead to the formation of serious malformations in it, which may appear after the birth of the baby.
The appearance of clots in blood vessels in late pregnancy is also an extremely unfavorable condition. It can lead to the development of a very dangerous condition, which doctors call hypoxia.
This pathology is characterized by strong starvation of the cells of all organs of the baby. Prolonged hypoxia is also fraught with the development of numerous diseases. The most vulnerable organs are the baby’s brain and heart.
Without the provision of qualified medical care, rather dangerous pathologies can form in a baby, which often acquire a chronic progressive course in the future.
Causes of occurrence
Obstetricians-gynecologists distinguish quite a few different pathological conditions in which various clots come out of the vagina in pregnant women.In different periods of pregnancy, the situation may be different.
Early
A fairly common pathology, accompanied by the appearance of clots from the vagina in a pregnant woman, is an ectopic pregnancy. The danger of this pathology is that, unfortunately, it is extremely rare to detect it at the earliest stages. The flaking fetus causes heavy bleeding, which is accompanied by the release of clots.
Failure to provide timely medical care can even lead to the death of the expectant mother. In this case, requires urgent hospitalization of a pregnant woman in gynecology and her surgical treatment with the removal of the ovum.
A “frozen” pregnancy is another pathology that can be accompanied by the appearance of clots. It is characterized by the fact that at a certain stage of its intrauterine development, a small embryo simply ceases to fully grow and develop.
This condition manifests itself in the first trimester of pregnancy. This is an extremely difficult pathology. In this case, it is required to terminate the pregnancy, since the further development of the baby, unfortunately, is no longer possible.
Detachment of the embryo from the uterine wall in the early weeks of its intrauterine development can also lead to bleeding in a pregnant woman mixed with blood clots.In this situation, the small fetus begins to detach from the wall of the uterus as a result of the influence of a variety of external factors and causes.
Strong psychological stress or too intense physical activity can lead to the development of such a situation. Also, various diseases of the internal organs that the expectant mother suffers from can also provoke detachment.
This pathology manifests itself, as a rule, by “smearing” bloody discharge with the presence of various blood clots in them.A woman develops pain syndrome with an epicenter in the lower abdomen. Usually, its intensity increases over several hours.
The pain can be unbearable. Without medical care, the prognosis for a woman is also unfavorable.
Thrombophlebitis of blood vessels is a very dangerous pathology that can develop in any period of pregnancy. A woman has a certain genetic predisposition to the development of this disease.
This disease is characterized by the development of numerous blood clots that close the lumen of blood vessels. This pathology is extremely unfavorable for the course of pregnancy and can lead to the threat of spontaneous miscarriage in the early stages of bearing a baby.
Late
Placental abruption is a fairly common pathology that can manifest itself in the second and third trimesters of pregnancy. This is an extremely dangerous condition for both the mother and the fetus.
In some women, this pathology develops rapidly. Heavy uterine bleeding can lead to fetal death in a fairly short time. Also, this pathology poses a threat to the life of the pregnant woman herself.
This condition is characterized by the appearance of sudden spotting or even bleeding. The severity of manifestations largely depends on how much the placenta has detached from the inner walls of the uterus.
The appearance of bleeding or spotting spotting in the second half of pregnancy is a very important reason for an urgent call for an ambulance.
Normally, in a healthy pregnant woman, vaginal discharge is clear or light. Their smell is slightly acidic or neutral. Changes in these indicators are a significant reason for an unscheduled visit to a doctor.
Normally, there should not be any bloody clots, even in small quantities in the later stages of bearing a baby.
In the third trimester, the appearance of clots from the vagina of a pregnant woman may be associated with the discharge of a mucous plug. It is necessary to protect the baby, who is in the mother’s womb, from various infections from outside. In the final period of pregnancy, the woman’s body begins to prepare for the upcoming birth.
This is also manifested by the fact that the mucous plug can come off. For many women, this happens in the shower or after exercise. As a rule, with the discharge of the mucous plug, blood clots also come out. This discharge is usually noticed by the expectant mother on her own – when examining her underwear. In this case, mucus with various bloody scarlet or pinkish streaks is visible.
Quite often it also happens that during pregnancy, expectant mothers notice not red, but pink discharge on their underwear. This usually gives them a real shock! You should not worry and panic.
This situation can be triggered by minor injuries after a transvaginal ultrasound examination or after examination by an obstetrician-gynecologist. Usually, these symptoms go away on their own after a couple of days.
Doctors recommend in this case only to limit any physical activity.In some cases, they may recommend that an expectant mother with similar symptoms stay in bed for a couple of days.
If during this time the symptoms do not progress, and she does not have red blood streaks, then there is no need to worry. In case of an unfavorable outcome of this condition or the appearance of a pain syndrome, should immediately seek the advice of a doctor.
What to do when they appear?
The appearance of bloody discharge is a reason to see a doctor. In this case, it is simply dangerous to delay or postpone a visit! This can be life-threatening for both the fetus and the mother. The most dangerous is the progression of the condition. In most women, after the appearance of clots, severe uterine bleeding occurs after a couple of hours.
If a woman finds any unpleasant discharge from the genital tract during urination or while taking a shower, she should immediately see a doctor. It is extremely unfavorable if these symptoms develop against the background of increased body temperature or are accompanied by cramping pains in the lower abdomen.
For information on how to maintain a pregnancy with a threat of miscarriage, see the next video.
90,000 Can blood during pregnancy. Why does it bleed a lot during early pregnancy without pain and can the fetus survive after bleeding with blood clots. Early pregnancy bleeding
Every fifth woman experiences bleeding during pregnancy.However, it does not always signal a serious threat to the life and health of the mother and the baby. There are reasons that are explained by physiological changes in a woman’s body, and in which discharge with blood is absolutely safe. Nevertheless, only a doctor, on the basis of an examination or an ultrasound scan, can say what exactly caused this manifestation.
What is considered bleeding?
Bleeding is a bleeding from the genital tract of various volumes. The color of the discharge depends on how much blood – small, medium or large – comes out.It can be red, brown, or pink. The presence of bleeding indicates the ongoing changes in the body and can proceed both without deterioration of well-being, and be accompanied by pain in the lower abdomen and in the lower back.
All pregnancy bleeding can be divided into two categories:
- Physiological.
Their cause is the restructuring of the female body. They do not pose a threat to the life and health of the mother and child. - Pathological. Observed in case of abnormal pregnancy, threaten the life and health of the woman and the fetus and require immediate medical attention.
There are so many reasons for bleeding that only a doctor can correctly diagnose the problem. Even with abnormal development of pregnancy, there is an opportunity to save her and the baby, but only if you do not miss precious time.
Why does it bleed in the early stages?
Most often bleeding occurs in the 1st and 3rd trimesters.In the early stages, they can be caused by the following reasons:
- Gynecological examination or ultrasound.
Often, minor bleeding occurs after examination by a gynecologist or ultrasound with a transvaginal probe. However, this is not a cause for panic. They are caused by mucosal trauma, which completely disappears in a couple of days. - The onset of your period.
In some women, on the days when the critical days were supposed to begin, there is a slight, smearing discharge that lasts 3-4 days.This usually happens in the first three months after conception. It can be caused by both individual characteristics of the body and hormonal disorders. - Implantation.
Blood may be slightly released at the time of implantation of the ovum in the uterine cavity. However, a woman may take her for, albeit meager, but menstruation, and not guess about pregnancy. In the future, this can cause difficulties in determining the duration of pregnancy. - Infection.
When pregnancy occurs, the immune system is significantly weakened.This can provoke the rapid development of sexually transmitted infections, and, as a result, severe inflammation up to bleeding. - Insufficient amount of progesterone.
If the hormone is not produced in sufficient quantities, it can threaten pregnancy. Based on the test results, the doctor prescribes treatment in the form of tablets, suppositories or progesterone injections. - Ectopic pregnancy.
Bleeding may be caused by an abnormal attachment of the ovum in the abdomen, ovary, or, more commonly, the fallopian tube.At an early stage, such a pregnancy has all the signs of a usual one – toxicosis, absence of menstruation, breast augmentation, even two strips on the test. However, with the growth of the fetus, soreness appears at the site of the embryo, as well as spotting spotting, which then intensifies. In this case, it is impossible to preserve the pregnancy; at best, it is possible to leave the fallopian tube. However, if a woman suffers pain, does not go to the doctor, then the tube may rupture and severe bleeding, which poses a threat to life. - Frozen pregnancy.
Light bleeding may indicate fetal freezing. For unclear reasons, it stops developing, which can manifest itself as pain in the lower abdomen. Also, most often all signs of pregnancy disappear – the breast becomes smaller, toxicosis stops, the basal temperature drops. Sometimes the result is a miscarriage, but more often curettage is required. Delaying with the procedure is dangerous for women’s health. - Bubble drift.
An error occurs during fertilization and as a result, instead of an embryo, a benign tumor develops in the form of a cluster of small cysts.In this case, there is dark, thick blood with egg bubbles. Bleeding may persist until the tumor is removed. - Spontaneous or threatened abortion.
Accompanied by pain in the lower abdomen and lower back. As a rule, it starts with smearing secretions, which, if not asked for help, develop into massive bleeding, during which the embryo can exit. However, the outcome is not always deplorable. If you call an ambulance in a timely manner and go to the hospital, then with all the recommendations of the doctor and drug therapy, there is a high chance to save the baby. However, if the fetus has genetic abnormalities, or the bleeding is already profuse, with clots, accompanied by sharp pain, then the process cannot be stopped, a miscarriage has occurred. It can be complete or incomplete when scraping is required to remove the remnants of the membranes.
Why is spotting bothersome at a later date?
Among the main causes of bleeding in the late stages are:
- Placenta previa. Occurs when the placenta is misplaced, partially or completely overlapping the uterine pharynx. It is on the bottom that the main load falls, which provokes rupture of the placenta. With such a diagnosis, the woman is put on preservation and they try to prolong the pregnancy as long as possible with the help of tocolytics and antispasmodics, iron preparations for the treatment of anemia, as well as means to improve blood supply. If the therapy does not work and the bleeding does not stop, then an emergency caesarean section is performed to save the woman’s life.
- Placental abruption.
In this case, there is always a discharge with scarlet, often streaked with blood. There are a lot of reasons for detachment, among the main ones are late toxicosis, a large child, heart defects, a fall, etc. As a result, the tone rises, and the woman experiences severe pain in the lower abdomen. The kid suffers from hypoxia. Detachment is dangerous because bleeding is often internal, when a hematoma develops, and only then pours out. The actions are the same as in presentation. - Bleeding from the vessels of the fetus.
Occurs when the umbilical cord or the vessels of the fetal membrane is damaged. However, this is a very rare case, occurring once in 5 thousand. It is accompanied by bleeding of a bright scarlet color, hypoxia, increased and then decreased heart rate. Only the doctor determines how to proceed in each specific case – to preserve or deliver. - Uterine rupture.
Most often, uterine rupture occurs as a result of a fresh, unhealed scar from a previous pregnancy. Multiple pregnancies, polyhydramnios, large sizes of the fetus can provoke tissue overstretching and rupture. The scar takes time to heal, so it is optimal 2-3 years after a cesarean section. Bleeding of a bright scarlet color is accompanied by acute pain in the abdomen. In this case, an emergency caesarean section is performed. - Cervical pathology.
Rare, but possible with ectopia, cervicitis, polyps, erosion. Blood begins to secrete when the cervix is damaged during sex, taking a smear, etc.e. Very rarely, bleeding is associated with cervical cancer.
Causes of bleeding at any stage
There are reasons that provoke bleeding at any stage of embryogenesis, these are:
- Erosion.
If a woman has cervical erosion, it may cause blood droplets to appear. As a rule, expectant tactics are used, and erosion is cauterized after childbirth. - Myoma.
Represents a benign neoplasm in the uterus.Often the fibroids were already there before pregnancy. However, changes in hormonal levels can provoke its growth. In the presence of fibroids in the 1st trimester, there is a high risk of bleeding and miscarriage due to increased tone. - Sexual intercourse.
During sex, blood vessels can be damaged due to the strong blood supply to the uterine pharynx. In this case, the bleeding will be mild, without pain and will end in a couple of hours. This is not dangerous for the child, however, it is better to choose safer positions and reduce the intensity of intercourse.
Bleeding is also possible if a woman has increased blood circulation in the pelvic organs, had physical activity, has cardiovascular diseases associated with a weakening of the inner layer of the walls of blood vessels, and polyposis growths are also present.
How to stop bleeding during pregnancy?
If a woman has spotting, the very first thing to do is not to panic. Bleeding is possible and does not always threaten the health and life of a woman and a child, but panic can increase the tone, as well as entail wrong actions on the part of the pregnant woman.
To prevent this from happening:
- take a horizontal position, placing a roller under your feet;
- call an ambulance;
- drink two tablets – no-shpa and valerian, and put a hot water bottle with ice on the stomach;
- do not wash away, since the nature of the discharge is important for the doctor to make a diagnosis;
- Place pad, do not use swab;
- Be ready to go with an ambulance for an inspection.
If hospitalization is offered, do not refuse.It is important to remember that a woman is responsible not only for her life, but also for her unborn child.
In the hospital, the doctor uses the following diagnostic tools:
- gynecological examination;
- early HCG analysis;
- CTG at a later date;
Treatment will be prescribed depending on the specific cause of the bleeding. If it is caused by damage to the polyp, erosion, or there are no pathologies, then therapy is not required. If the reason is the threat of miscarriage, then the pregnant woman is placed in a hospital and the following means are prescribed to stop bleeding:
- hemostatic, for example, Dicinon;
- antispasmodics – No-shpa;
- hormonal – Utrozhestan;
- sedatives – valerian;
- vitamins – E, B9, magnesium.
If the reason is a frozen pregnancy, then curettage is mandatory, after which antibiotics, anti-inflammatory, hemostatic agents are prescribed. An ectopic pregnancy cannot be saved, only the fallopian tube can be saved, but not always. With placenta previa or its detachment, if the bleeding cannot be stopped, a cesarean section is prescribed.
Is bleeding always a threat?
As noted above, there are physiological bleeding that is associated with the transformation of a woman’s organs during pregnancy.Such discharge can appear as a result of implantation, examination on a gynecological chair or as a result of an ultrasound procedure, after sex, etc. In this case, they are not dangerous.
However, you shouldn’t make the diagnosis yourself. Often, even with an abnormal course of pregnancy, there are no painful sensations, in which case delay is dangerous and can lead to miscarriage. Therefore, if there is bleeding – strong or weak, with or without pain, an urgent need to consult a doctor. Only he will be able to correctly diagnose the cause, as well as immediately provide assistance if necessary.
In conclusion
Even if bleeding is caused by various pathologies of pregnancy, with timely medical care, the prognosis is usually favorable. Many women face the threat of pregnancy, but nevertheless carry and give birth to healthy babies. To do this, you need to follow all the recommendations of your doctor. However, it is preferable to prepare in advance for conception – to eliminate benign neoplasms, treat infections, and subsequently avoid stress, exertion, violent intercourse.
Special for
– Elena Kichak
May be very frightening, but blood loss does not always mean a miscarriage. Bleeding during pregnancy, especially in the first trimester, is more common than you might think. Therefore, it is important to know why they occur and what to do.
According to research, about 25% of the women interviewed confirmed that they had bleeding during pregnancy, and 8% had it quite severe. Most of the cases occurred between 5 and 8 weeks, and lasted no more than 3 days.
Of those who had bleeding, only 12% of women experienced a miscarriage. One-time bleeding occurs in many women, but there are those who have it periodically throughout pregnancy. may look like droplets, streaks, or a period-like discharge.
Bleeding during pregnancy: should you tell your doctor
Yes. Any bleeding during pregnancy should be reported to the gynecologist immediately.
Any vaginal bleeding before 24 weeks of gestation is considered a potential risk of miscarriage.After 24 weeks, this is called prenatal haemorrhage.
Those who have a negative Rh factor should definitely see a doctor within 72 hours after bleeding, as there are suspicions that the child’s blood may mix with yours. If mixing occurs, the mother’s body can start producing antibodies against the baby’s rhesus-positive blood.
Rh positive is much more common than negative rhesus. For the first pregnancy, mixing blood does not have any consequences, but in subsequent pregnancies, the body may decide to attack unfamiliar matter with antibodies if the baby is Rh positive again.
The following are the most common causes of bleeding during pregnancy. Not all of them are scary and dangerous. During pregnancy, minor cramps and pulling sensations occur, and this is normal. But if the bleeding is accompanied by severe pain and cramps, seek medical help immediately.
Implant bleeding
Breakthrough bleeding
Some women have what is called a breakthrough or during the period when they should have had their period.Thus, such discharge appears at 4, 8, 12 weeks, respectively. They are often accompanied by the sensations that you usually experience with your period, that is, back pain, cramps, heaviness in the lower abdomen, feeling of bloatedness and loss of energy.
Of course, due to the fact that you are pregnant, your period does not come, although it seems to you that you should. During pregnancy, hormones prevent secretions, but sometimes, when hormone levels have not yet reached their peak and cannot stop menstruation, there is a “breakthrough” – breakthrough bleeding.
This can last up to 3 months, and after that the placenta takes responsibility for the production of hormones by the ovaries. There are women who have breakthrough bleeding almost all the time during pregnancy, and being under the constant supervision of doctors, they freely give birth to healthy babies.
Threatened miscarriage or miscarriage
According to research, one third of all pregnancies end in miscarriage (the medical term is spontaneous abortion).It sounds intimidating, but you shouldn’t despair, as this number includes miscarriages very early, the first 12 weeks, when a woman may not even realize that she was pregnant at all.
This type of miscarriage often occurs as a result of damage to the fetus, that is, the woman’s body rejects an unviable fetus.
If you have crossed the 14-16 week mark, you can calm down.
It is most reasonable to refrain from announcing your pregnancy to the whole world until the 2-month term is reached.You, of course, can be bursting with emotions and joy, but in the event of a miscarriage, it will be twice as painful for you to report a failed pregnancy again. Empathy is important, but sometimes it can only exacerbate your grief over broken dreams of being a mom.
Signs of a miscarriage are bleeding, cramps, lower back and abdominal pain. Women often say they “don’t feel pregnant” when they have a miscarriage or bleeding. The main signs of pregnancy disappear – nausea, breast tenderness and a swollen belly.
If you are bleeding and feel all of the above, there is a risk that you may have lost your baby. If you’re bleeding but don’t feel like the pregnancy has ended, chances are good that it is, but overall, the baby is fine.
A miscarriage can also happen without bleeding, which is often called “”, when the fetus dies but is still trapped inside your body. Signs of pregnancy in this case will disappear, but fetal cardiac arrest can only be determined by ultrasound.A curette may be needed to remove a dead fetus.
Bleeding after intercourse
Bleeding after sex is one of the most common causes of bleeding during pregnancy. It is completely harmless and is due to increased blood supply and softening of the cervix. While this bleeding is not a serious concern, you should still report it to your doctor. Be prepared for a very personal question about whether you have had sex recently.
This does not mean that you need to stop having sex, but you may have to convince your partner that he will not harm the baby, that he is reliably protected in the uterus, which is located much higher than the vagina.
Ectopic pregnancy
Occurs when a fertilized egg is attached outside the uterus, usually in the fallopian tube.
You may have severe pain in the lower abdomen on one side, or rolling pain, as well as weakness and nausea.The pain may suddenly disappear if the tube ruptures, but will return after a few hours or days and feel worse.
This is a rather dangerous situation. An ectopic pregnancy can rupture the fallopian tubes and cause internal bleeding, which can lead to infertility. You may have to remove the fallopian tube and end the pregnancy, but this does not mean that you will have problems conceiving in the future, provided that your second ovary and fallopian tube are healthy.
Placental bleeding
Another question that you may hear at your doctor’s appointment is whether you have had a scan and how is the placenta located.
Painless vaginal bleeding may result from abnormal placement of the placenta. Sometimes the placenta is located very low on the wall of the uterus, and sometimes just above the cervix. This is called placenta previa and occurs in about 0.5% of pregnancies.
Will inevitably lead to bleeding at some point in your pregnancy – usually after 20 weeks.There are varying degrees of severity of this condition, but they all require repeated ultrasounds for an accurate diagnosis. To prevent a threat to the baby, you may be advised to stay in bed, induction, or caesarean section if the placenta continues to attach to the cervix.
Another cause of bleeding later in pregnancy is placental abruption, when the placenta is partially or completely separated from the uterine wall. This occurs in about 1 in 200 pregnancies.Symptoms include general severe pain and heavy bleeding. The bleeding can be visible or hidden in the uterus, which is tight, tight, hard to the touch, and very painful.
If you smoke, have high blood pressure, kidney problems or preeclampsia, you are at high risk for placental abruption. This condition requires urgent hospitalization, and depending on the severity of the bleeding, you may be prescribed bed rest, induction, or caesarean section.
Uterine myoma
Uterine fibroids are masses of hardened muscle and fibrous tissue that may reside inside or outside the walls of the uterus.They can be both problematic and unproblematic during pregnancy – this, first of all, depends on the location of the fibroid and on whether it increases or not.
There is no consensus among doctors on this matter, but it is known that hormones produced during pregnancy can cause both a decrease and an increase in fibroids.
Fibroids are best removed prior to pregnancy, as they are likely to result in an ectopic pregnancy, heavy bleeding during pregnancy, or miscarriage.
However, many women give birth without any complications. If you have fibroids, it is important to see a specialist in order to understand your particular situation and determine the next steps. Avoid internet self-medication as it is a serious matter and should not be trusted by couch experts.
What to do if I am bleeding
If you are more than 20 weeks pregnant, if bleeding occurs, see a doctor immediately. Never use tampons if you experience bleeding during pregnancy; always take a spacer.
If the bleeding is minor and you are not in pain, talk to your doctor or nurse anyway. If the bleeding is heavy (flow or clots) and is accompanied by abdominal cramps, back pain, and pain similar to menstruation, call an ambulance immediately.
It is understandable that you are upset, but try to remain calm and remember that bleeding occurs during pregnancy, this is not an anomaly.
The blood belongs to you, not the baby, so the continuation of a completely healthy pregnancy and the birth of a healthy child is possible and most likely.Do not be surprised if, with such complaints in the early stages (up to 12 weeks), you are advised to just watch and wait.
What to do if miscarriage occurs
If you are experiencing a miscarriage, unfortunately, nothing can stop or prevent this process. Losing a child is always painful, frustrated, and overwhelmed, but the best thing you can do is take care of yourself, physically and emotionally. It is not your fault that you lost your child, and you cannot change anything, but there are things that will help you feel more physically comfortable:
- Bed rest
- Paracetamol / Panadein (drug for relieving cramps during menstruation)
- Heating pad or bottle of warm water on the stomach
- Tea & Partner Support
Along with the secretions, various lumps of tissue may come out, an undeveloped fetus, but soon the bleeding will stop.If the blood does not stop, you need to seek immediate medical attention.
Remember that in most cases, bleeding in early pregnancy occurs spontaneously, and after that, the pregnancy continues healthy and unharmed.
Bleeding during pregnancy can be very frightening for the expectant mother, but it is important to know that blood loss does not always mean that a miscarriage is taking place at the moment.
Discharge of blood from the genital tract while waiting for a baby is more common than you might think.Approximately 20-25% of women have this problem. The doctor diagnoses a miscarriage in about half of women, but the other half of women will be able to maintain the pregnancy. The most likely time for bleeding to occur is in the first trimester.
Some women may experience a one-off blood loss, others may experience it for the entire 40 weeks. These can be small blemishes, smudging discharge, and stronger discharge.
Do I need to report this fact to the gynecologist?
Required! Any, even minor, bleeding should be reported to your gynecologist at the antenatal clinic.Any loss of blood of this nature will be considered “threatened” or “threatened with termination of pregnancy”.
It is especially important to see your doctor within 72 hours of the onset of bleeding if you are Rh negative. Usually, during the first pregnancy, the Rh-conflict is not very acute, but it is worth playing it safe.
Why can bleeding occur during pregnancy?
There are a number of reasons that are not always dangerous for the woman and the fetus. Some arise in the early stages, others at later stages, but you should definitely pay attention to any sensations you do not understand.Remember that if your discharge is accompanied by cramps and pain, you should seek professional help as soon as possible.
Reason # 1: Implant bleeding
Reason number 2: Menstruation during pregnancy
Some women have what is popularly known as “washing of the fetus” – the discharge occurs at a time when menstruation usually should go.
In addition to discharge, the usual sensations that you experienced during menstruation also appear – back pain, stretching of the abdomen, heaviness in the pelvic region, a feeling of swelling in the lower abdomen.
During pregnancy, hormones prevent the onset of menstruation. But sometimes it happens that their level is not yet high enough to stop the cycle. In most cases, by the age of 3 months, the placenta takes over the production of hormones and this problem ceases to bother a woman. But it very rarely happens that a woman may have a “washing of the fetus” during the entire pregnancy and they give birth to healthy children on time, but it is important to always be under the close supervision of their gynecologist.
This situation is not normal for a healthy woman, the causes of the disorders should be looked for in the hormonal background.
Reason # 3: Threat or miscarriage
Studies show that about 30% of all pregnancies end in miscarriage (the medical term is spontaneous abortion). This usually happens in the first 12 weeks, and the woman may not even know about her situation. The main cause of miscarriage is fetal anomalies.
Once you have reached the threshold of 14-16 weeks, you can relax and be confident that your pregnancy is safe. That is why it is considered the norm not to tell acquaintances about your situation earlier than this period, until it is precisely known about a favorable outcome.
General signs of miscarriage: bleeding, cramps and pain in the back and abdomen. Women who have experienced this argue that if the signs of pregnancy continued, then usually fetal loss could have been avoided. But when, before the miscarriage, the woman sharply felt the disappearance of all the symptoms (nausea, bloating, chest pain), then in most cases grief could not be avoided.
Reason # 4: Sexual intercourse
Spotting spotting very often occurs after a stormy night with a partner.It is completely harmless and is caused by increased blood supply and softening of the cervix. Although this form of bleeding is not serious, tell your doctor about it. You do not need to completely end the love relationship with your husband, but you should reduce your partner’s overly active movements.
Reason # 5: Ectopic pregnancy
It occurs when your fertilized egg becomes attached outside the uterus, usually in the fallopian tube. You may experience severe pain on only one side of the abdomen, or general pain, and you may feel weak and nauseous.If the tube ruptures, the pain may disappear for a few hours or days, but then it will return and the situation will become even more complicated.
An ectopic pregnancy must be urgently disposed of, as it can rupture the fallopian tube, causing internal bleeding and tube damage. In such cases, the fallopian tubes are removed along with the ovum, but this does not mean that now the woman will never be able to have a child. The chance remains fairly high if the second ovary and fallopian tube are healthy.
Reason # 6: Problems with the placenta
Painless vaginal bleeding may be caused by abnormal placement of the placenta. Sometimes this organ is implanted very low on the wall of the uterus, right above the cervical canal. This is called and occurs in about 2% of expectant mothers. Presentation will inevitably lead to bleeding at some point in pregnancy, usually after 20 weeks. There are several degrees of severity of this condition, it will require a second ultrasound to accurately diagnose it.
Another problem that occurs in 1 in 200 expectant mothers is partial or complete detachment of the placenta from the walls of the uterus. Symptoms: Severe pain and blood loss. To learn more about the degree, causes, treatment of detachment, read our article.
What to do?
- Do not use swabs, only pads.
- Regardless of the gestational age and the diagnosis that you suspect, see your doctor as soon as possible.
One of the most dangerous periods of pregnancy is the first and last trimesters.Therefore, it is not at all surprising that these particular periods will be accompanied by a variety of complications, which may include uterine and vaginal bleeding.
Seeing blood manifestations on their underwear, every mom-to-be begins to worry. It is important to remember that bleeding that opens up precisely in the early stages of pregnancy can result in various abnormalities, and in this case, a woman needs to urgently seek medical help.
In any case, it is required to consult a specialist, since it is necessary to accurately establish the reasons that provoked the appearance of blood, after which measures will be taken to eliminate it.
Blood during pregnancy, what is important to know?
It is believed that the manifestation of minor bleeding during the first trimester of pregnancy is the norm. During the first few weeks of pregnancy, bleeding can occur for a variety of reasons. Most often, small fragments of the uterine wall are rejected, while red or brown spotting will appear on the surface of the underwear. In the case of the norm, such bleeding should not be too profuse, however, in some cases, their appearance may be accompanied by not very strong spasms.
Even if such bleeding does not cause alarm and soon disappear on its own, it is necessary to seek help from a gynecologist who monitors the course of pregnancy, since only he can exclude the presence of pathologies and establish the exact cause of this phenomenon.
But, nevertheless, even though bleeding during pregnancy can be completely safe, this phenomenon in obstetric practice is one of the most dangerous. The fact is that potentially opened bleeding can pose a threat not only to the proper development of the fetus, but also to the health of the woman herself.
A few facts about bleeding during pregnancy
At different stages of pregnancy, every fifth woman is faced with such a phenomenon as bleeding. If you seek help in a timely manner, you can easily avoid a serious threat to the child. With the right approach, there is a chance not only to preserve the pregnancy, but also to give birth to a completely healthy baby.
It should be borne in mind that the manifestation of bloody discharge from the genital tract during pregnancy can be one of the main signs of the development of a threat, and also be the main symptom of early placental abruption either.If the bleeding was provoked by precisely such reasons, there is a serious threat not only to the life of the child, but also to the future mother, and the immediate intervention of an experienced doctor is required.
To date, the number of dangerous causes of bleeding opening is several times greater than non-dangerous ones. And only a specialist, after a full examination of the pregnant woman, will be able to determine the reason for the development of such changes as accurately as possible.
Therefore, even with the slightest discharge from the genital tract, you need to be examined by your gynecologist.There is a likelihood of brown discharge (in this case, the blood has clotted) or scarlet (in this case, fresh blood appears).
Quite often in the early stages of pregnancy, bleeding opens as a result of the development of such an unpleasant disease as. In this case, there is a sharp increase in blood flow to the uterus and bleeding of its cervix may begin.
Also, not only the development of erosion, but also the presence of a variety of harmless tumors directly in the uterus itself or in its cervix can provoke the opening of bleeding.This leads to the fact that not too much bleeding opens, while the woman will not experience any unpleasant sensations. If similar ones were found in a woman, it is possible to remove them, or over time they disappear on their own. However, it should be understood that the procedure for removing such polyps is not capable of harming the unborn baby and the course of pregnancy goes well.
Danger of bleeding during pregnancy
In some cases, opened vaginal bleeding during pregnancy can cause a rather strong feeling of anxiety in the expectant mother.The fact is that the manifestation of such bleeding in the early stages can lead to rather serious complications, which include not only an ectopic pregnancy, but also the threat of spontaneous miscarriage, as well as the development of dangerous oncological formations.
Such bleeding may indicate that there is varicose expansion of the blood vessels of the external genital organs, the presence of a dangerous infection of the vagina, as well as certain pathologies of the cervix, which may be severe and require immediate medical intervention.
One of the most dangerous complications of opening vaginal bleeding is precisely the likelihood of spontaneous miscarriage. At the very beginning of such a state, bleeding begins, which may be insignificant and not accompanied by any painful sensations, sometimes the girl does not experience absolutely any discomfort. However, such bleeding can last for a long time, and at the very end there are sometimes very severe pains.
Also, such a dangerous condition as an ectopic pregnancy can provoke the opening of bleeding from the vagina.One of the negative consequences of the development of an ectopic pregnancy, if it is not diagnosed in time, can be a rupture of the cervix, and in the most severe cases, a threat to a woman’s life develops.
It is very important to remember that complications of this kind can carry a rather serious danger and there is a need for immediate consultation with an experienced specialist, especially if the bleeding that opens is accompanied by even a slight discomfort.
The doctor conducts a full examination of the pregnant woman, after which he prescribes an ultrasound examination, taking into account the obtained test data, he will be able to establish the presence of inflammation in the vagina, which, as a result, led to the onset of bleeding.Taking into account the peculiarities of the course of pregnancy, the doctor will have to convince that there is no threat of miscarriage at all.
Causes of bleeding in the first trimester of pregnancy
In about 2% of cases in pregnant women, during the first few months, there is a manifestation of bloody spotting, which in its consistency is very similar to menstruation. At the same time, it is considered normal for a few drops of blood to appear on linen five to seven days after conception.Quite often, such manifestations accompany the process of implantation to the uterus of the ovum itself.
The uterine pharynx can also provoke the opening of bleeding, the appearance of which is possible as a result of active physical exercise or too violent sex, as this leads to severe damage to the vessels. In this case, the bleeding that has opened will not be too strong, while it can disappear on its own after about a few hours after its onset.Such bleeding, most often, is not accompanied by serious complications and can be completely safe for both the fetus and the woman’s health.
In the early stages of pregnancy, most often bleeding occurs as a result of tubal or ectopic pregnancy. In this case, the attachment of the embryo will not occur to the wall of the uterus (its normal development occurs only in this case), but stops in the fallopian tube itself.
In order to diagnose the development of pregnancy, it is necessary to conduct an additional ultrasound, thanks to which it will be possible to make sure that the embryo is correctly attached to the uterine wall and the beginning of its development.
The likelihood of developing an ectopic pregnancy is significantly increased among the category of women who have previously resorted to using an intrauterine device as a contraception. The presence of scars or adhesions, which act as an obstacle for the embryo itself to move into the uterus, can also provoke the fixation of the ovum in the fallopian tube.
Most often, with an ectopic pregnancy, cramps appear in the lower abdomen. If the woman does not receive timely medical care, there is a chance of rupture of the pipe.This process can be accompanied by a rather strong burning sensation, while the bleeding itself may increase. To eliminate this problem, there is a need for exclusively surgical intervention, since there is no way to endure an ectopic pregnancy.
If, in the early stages, bleeding has been discovered, this may be the first sign of the development of a threat of miscarriage. Most often, an insufficient amount of progesterone in the female body leads to this phenomenon, or if a course of treatment for infertility has recently been carried out, which as a result provokes placental abruption.
If rather severe pains began to appear, having a pulling or cramping character in the lower abdomen, there is a need for immediate medical attention. The fact is that only if you receive correct and timely medical care, there is a chance to maintain a pregnancy.
Causes of bleeding in the third trimester of pregnancy
It is extremely rare for bleeding to open during the second trimester of pregnancy, and its opening can occur as a result of a fall or receiving a strong blow.And during the third trimester, the opening of bleeding occurs quite often, which causes a rather strong feeling of anxiety in the expectant mother.
The process of placental abruption may be accompanied by the development of hypertonicity of the uterus (abdominal “petrification” occurs), which leads to the appearance of rather unpleasant and severe pain in the lower abdomen, which have a cramping character. In this case, the woman should be immediately hospitalized, after which a cesarean section is performed, thanks to which there is a chance to save the life of not only the child, but also the woman herself.
Incorrect placement of the placenta can also provoke the opening of bleeding in the last trimester of pregnancy. In order to determine the presence of this pathology, there is a need for an ultrasound scan. In the event that there is a very low attachment of the placenta, then the doctor may insist on performing a cesarean section instead of natural childbirth.
But at the same time, not all bleeding during pregnancy can be dangerous and indicate the presence of abnormalities or require immediate medical intervention.Not only during the first, but also the last trimester of pregnancy, minor bleeding may be the norm and do not lead to serious complications.
In order to avoid serious complications and tragedies (for example, spontaneous miscarriage), if even minor bleeding appears on your underwear, you need to consult with your gynecologist, who will be able to determine the exact cause and will do everything possible to avoid negative consequences.
It is worth considering the fact that solely taking into account the manifestation of external symptoms, it is simply impossible to determine an accurate diagnosis, therefore, to establish the cause that could lead to the discovery of bleeding.That is why the onset of bleeding in any period of pregnancy requires mandatory consultation with a specialist.
During pregnancy, bloody discharge may appear at different periods, but most often this phenomenon is observed in the first trimester.
Blood can be of varying intensity, and the color of the discharge ranges from bright red to dark brown. For a woman, such symptoms should be an alarming sign and a significant reason for going to a doctor or an ambulance.
Causes of spotting in the first trimester
The appearance of several drops of blood on underwear can be triggered by damage to the capillaries of the inner layer of the uterus at the time of implantation of the ovum. This may be the first sign of pregnancy, and occurs about 7-10 days before the start of the next period in 3% of pregnant women.
Allocations of this kind are not abundant, they are safe and last 1-2 days. Some women mistake them for menstruation, but their dark color and few are considered to be the hallmarks of implantation bleeding.Such bleeding is more likely to indicate pregnancy. A blood test for hCG or a hormone-sensitive test strip for home use will help to confirm or deny this fact.
Sometimes the reason for the appearance of small bloody discharge is increased blood circulation in the growing uterus, as a result of which varicose veins are enlarged and polyps are formed in the cervical canal. Similar symptoms are observed with. These conditions do not cause discomfort in women during pregnancy and do not require treatment.
There is a common misconception that during pregnancy there may be periods. In fact, the menstrual cycle stops after the successful implantation of an egg in the uterus. Normally, there should be no bloody discharge. Sometimes scanty bleeding on the days of the beginning of a new menstrual cycle in early pregnancy occurs for the following reasons:
In medical practice, rare cases were recorded when a woman became pregnant twice, while the second fertilization occurred later, against the background of pregnancy, which began its development.In this case, the second fertilized egg is excreted by the body with a certain amount of blood. These situations are rare and difficult to diagnose.
In the fifth week of pregnancy, the laying of the circulatory system of the embryo begins. During this period, a Rh-conflict between the mother’s body and the unborn child is possible. Immunoconflict can provoke. This is usually accompanied by pain in the abdomen.
It is rather difficult to detect a frozen pregnancy before 4-5 weeks.Only in the second month of development in the embryo can signs of a heartbeat be detected with an ultrasound examination. If the development of pregnancy has stopped, then after a while a spontaneous miscarriage will occur, but up to this point an inflammatory process may develop in the uterus, therefore, if a frozen pregnancy is detected, cleaning is recommended.
Critical periods are considered to be the intervals between 4 and 5, 8 and 9, as well as 12.13 weeks of pregnancy. If you have any signs of bleeding, you should urgently seek medical attention.
The most dangerous cause of bleeding is an ectopic pregnancy. The appearance of blood from the genital tract is an extremely alarming signal about the onset of bleeding in the abdominal cavity. As a rule, the bleeding is insignificant, sometimes the discharge can resemble menstrual, only occasionally there is intense uterine bleeding. The pain has a different character, it can be aching, acute, can be concentrated in the lower abdomen or given to the side. An ectopic pregnancy is considered a serious complication and requires urgent surgery to save the woman’s life.
Causes of spotting in the second trimester
The appearance of spotting in the second trimester is quite rare. Their causes are usually the same as in the last three months of pregnancy. After the 14th week, there are no harmless prerequisites for such symptoms, therefore, any even insignificant spotting spotting should be the reason for an urgent appeal to the gynecologist.
From 15 to 28 weeks of gestation, placental abnormalities are the main cause of bleeding.In addition, these may be factors not related to bearing a child. Sometimes bleeding occurs due to infectious, hereditary diseases or injuries.
Causes of bleeding in the third trimester
Minor bleeding in the third trimester, as well as in the second, is a sign of pregnancy pathology, so the woman is hospitalized to establish an accurate diagnosis and treatment. On the part of the placenta, in the period from 28 to 37 weeks, phenomena such as presentation and detachment can be observed.
It is considered one of the dangerous conditions for various, often unknown reasons. Symptoms are dark and thick discharge, increased uterine tone, and abdominal pain. Placental abruption can be complete or partial.
In case of partial detachment, a decision is often made about expectant tactics, ultrasound diagnostics are carried out regularly, etc. In more severe cases, an emergency caesarean section is necessary.
It can bleed in the second and third trimester due to its unnatural location near the cervix.The body of a woman and the muscles of the uterus during this period are intensively prepared for the upcoming birth; during this process, part of the placenta may not hold in place and move away from the walls of the uterus. As a result, profuse hemorrhage begins, usually without pain. In some cases, it is accompanied by cramping or pulling pains in the abdomen.
Starting from the 37th week of pregnancy, the restructuring of the body before childbirth is activated. Overly accelerated labor can provoke placental abruption.More often at this time, thick secretions appear in the form of mucus with streaks of blood, this indicates a discharge from the cervix of the mucous plug and the imminent onset of contractions.
No matter how successful the pregnancy is, any suspicious discharge should be reported to your doctor. A bloody discharge deserves special attention. Timely diagnosis of their causes will help prevent undesirable consequences in time and safely carry the child.
90,000 Bleeding in early pregnancy blood during early pregnancy
Strange as it may seem, but not any bleeding at the beginning of pregnancy indicates a pathology that requires immediate medical intervention.Moreover, it can be said that in the very early stages of pregnancy, minor bleeding is considered a common symptom that is not a cause for concern and does not pose a danger to the normal course of pregnancy.
The first weeks of pregnancy is a time of global restructuring of a woman’s body, hormonal and physiological. What could be the reasons for the discharge of blood from the genital tract of a pregnant woman?
First of all, during the fixation of the ovum in the wall of the uterus, small fragments of its mucous membrane can be torn away, which causes the appearance of small bloody discharge from the vagina.This vaginal discharge can be brown, brownish, or intensely red. Most often, the discharge is not abundant and does not last longer than a few days. Sometimes they are accompanied by minor spasms, sometimes they go away completely painlessly for a pregnant woman. It is this kind of bleeding that sometimes becomes the first indicator of the onset of pregnancy. We repeat that this does not happen when the pregnancy has already been established, but during the implantation of the ovum, that is, when the “real” uterine pregnancy has not yet begun.Most often, in time, such bloody discharge coincides with the time of the onset of the next menstruation, which leads to the rather widespread opinion that with the onset of pregnancy, menstruation does not stop for everyone.
However, after the pregnancy is established, any bleeding should alert the pregnant woman and force her to immediately appear to the obstetrician-gynecologist leading the pregnancy. A fairly common reason for the discharge of blood from the genital tract in pregnant women in early pregnancy is cervical erosion.This also happens for a completely understandable reason: due to the increased blood flow to the uterus during pregnancy, the mucous membrane of the cervix may begin to bleed, turning into a kind of inflammatory ulcer. In the case of cervical erosion in pregnant women, blood from the genital tract appears after sexual intercourse or for no apparent reason at all, such bleeding is not accompanied by pain, is insignificant and quickly stops spontaneously. In addition to erosion, the cause of bleeding in pregnant women in the first trimester of pregnancy can be polyps of the cervical canal and decidual polyps – harmless tumors that grow in the uterus or cervix.At the same time, bleeding is also insignificant and is not accompanied by pain. Depending on the specific situation, the doctor may remove the polyp or wait for the polyp to fall off on its own, as is most often the case. Removing a bleeding polyp does not harm the course of pregnancy, since scraping of the uterine cavity is not required when removing it. In parallel with the removal of the polyp, treatment is required, aimed at replenishing blood loss and maintaining pregnancy. However, there are other cases when bleeding in the first trimester of pregnancy serves as a signal that “not everything is calm in the Danish kingdom.”In particular, such severe complications of the first trimester of pregnancy as spontaneous miscarriage and ectopic pregnancy can begin with vaginal bleeding. In addition, the release of blood from the genital tract of a pregnant woman may indicate the development of any severe pathology of the cervix, up to oncological neoplasms. Other causes of bleeding include varicose blood vessels in the vulva, vaginal infections.
Let us remind you again: in order not to miss the first signs of these complications, any bleeding in a pregnant woman should be a reason to see a doctor.Spontaneous miscarriage is an extremely serious complication of pregnancy that occurs early in pregnancy and usually begins with bleeding. Bleeding indicative of an incipient miscarriage may be minor and painless. However, it does not stop after a short time, but continues to grow both in intensity and in the accompanying unpleasant sensations. Spontaneous miscarriage occurs in several stages: threatening miscarriage, miscarriage that has begun, abortion in progress, incomplete and complete spontaneous miscarriage.These stages differ just by the intensity of bleeding and the presence of pain. With a threatening miscarriage, bloody discharge from the genital tract of a pregnant woman is extremely meager, pain is usually absent or is manifested by aching sensations in the lower abdomen. At the same time, the uterus has not yet been changed, and with active and timely treatment, pregnancy can be maintained. The incipient miscarriage is characterized by slow bleeding, cramping pain. The cervix at this stage of miscarriage may already be slightly shortened, and the external pharynx is slightly open.At the same time, the woman’s condition remains satisfactory and, with proper treatment, it is possible to maintain pregnancy. If this moment is missed, then it is almost impossible to maintain the pregnancy, and, in addition, severe bleeding during abortion on the go necessitates urgent hospitalization, in which the uterine cavity is scraped out, with compensation for blood loss, depending on its volume and the woman’s condition. Bloody discharge with incomplete miscarriage is significant, usually dark red, and clots can be seen in them.Bleeding is accompanied by cramping pains in the lower abdomen. Emergency care consists in scraping the uterine cavity, removing the remnants of the ovum; compensation for blood loss, depending on its volume and the condition of the woman. If there is a complete miscarriage, then there is no bleeding, since the ovum is completely secreted from the uterus. The only thing that the doctor should do in this case is to scrape the uterine cavity so that no parts of the ovum remain there.
Spontaneous miscarriages, sadly, are a fairly common cause of uterine bleeding during pregnancy.Another cause of bleeding in pregnant women can be an ectopic pregnancy, that is, a situation in which the ovum is not fixed in the body of the uterus, but in the tubes or in the cervix.
An ectopic pregnancy not noticed in time can lead to rupture of the cervix and even death. Therefore, at the first signs of malaise (bleeding from the genitals, combined with subjective signs of pregnancy: toxicosis, engorgement of the mammary glands, etc.), you should immediately consult a doctor.However, we note that bleeding, indicating an ectopic pregnancy, occurs when a woman does not yet know about pregnancy at all. So this situation can be attributed very conditionally to bleeding during pregnancy. Based on the examination, analyzes and ultrasound diagnostics, the doctor will immediately determine if there is inflammation that could cause bleeding, how the pregnancy proceeds, if there is a threat of miscarriage.
With competent and timely treatment, many complications can be avoided, our doctors always strive to preserve pregnancy even in its earliest stages.