Vaginal Bleeding during pregnancy can be frightening, but it may not be a sign of problem. Bleeding during the first trimester of pregnancy is common and Minor bleeding without pain is not serious. However, vaginal bleeding during the second and third trimester of pregnancy must be taken seriously.
Basic things to know if you are having vaginal bleeding
- If you are bleeding, wearing a panyliner or diaper can help you monitor the amount of bleeding and the type of bleeding you are experiencing
- Avoid wearing tampons or menstrual cups. Avoid introducing foreign bodies to your vaginal area
- If you are having heavy bleeding associated with abdominal pain/cramps, contact your doctor immediately
Types of First Trimester bleeding
- Implantation bleeding-this happens when the fertilized egg have attached to the lining of the uterus. This type of bleeding is usually light and resembles spotting. This is normal and not considered as a risk factor for miscarriage or pregnancy loss.
- Miscarriage-pregnancy loss before the 20th week of pregnancy. More than bleeding, symptoms of miscarriage include abdominal pain/cramps stronger than menstrual cramps and passage of bloody tissue materials.
- Ectopic pregnancy- this happens when the fertilized egg is implanted in the fallopian tube or area other than the uterus. Ectopic pregnancies may lead to severe complication. Ultrasound can be used to diagnose ectopic pregnancy
- Infection-Sexually transmitted diseases can cause bleeding during pregnancy. Physical examination and further laboratory work-up can be done to diagnose infections.
Types of Second and Third Trimester Bleeding
Bleeding during the 2nd and 3rd trimesters of pregnancy must be evaluated by your doctor immediately
- Placenta Previa-Placenta is the organ which develops in a pregnant woman’s uterus to provide oxygen and nourishment to the developing fetus. Placenta previa happens when the placenta covers any portion of the opening of the cervix or the placenta lies low in the uterus entirely or partially covering the cervix. Symptoms include passage of bright-red blood without pain. This can be diagnosed with ultrasound and requires close monitoring during pregnancy
- Placental Abruption-this happens when the placenta separates from the lining of the uterus before delivery. This is often associated with severe abdominal pain, back pain, and contractions.
- Premature Labor-this occurs before 37 weeks of pregnancy. Other symptoms are cramps, changes in vaginal discharge, bag of water breaks and regular contractions or uterine tightening
- Uterine Rupture-happens when wall of the uterus breaks. This condition is very rare but immediate treatment must be done. When this happens, the body parts of the fetus is easier to feel through the abdomen.
Risk factors for bleeding during pregnancy
Common risk factors include:
- Older age of the pregnant woman (35 years old and above)
- Previous uterine surgery (previous cesarean section)
- Smoking
- High blood pressure
- Diabetes Mellitus
- History of Sexually Transmitted Infection
There are several causes of bleeding during pregnancy. Early prenatal care is essential and regular follow-up is necessary for a healthy pregnancy. Bleeding or any other symptom felt during pregnancy must be discussed with your doctor for prompt medical attention.
How is bleeding during pregnancy treated
Your doctor may do an ultrasound and evaluation to determine the cause of your bleeding. Other blood and urine tests may be done. Appropriate medications may be given depending on your doctor’s assessment.
You may also be advised to relax, avoid sexual activities, avoid travel, and have bedrest.
How can Eva Teleconsult help in your pregnancy?
Here at EVA Teleconsult, we have expert doctors like our Primary care physicians and OB GYNs who care for you and your baby. Furthermore, our doctors are always ready to address any questions or concerns you may have about your pregnancy. Here is how EVA works, at EVA our patients are guaranteed to experience the following:
- Timely appointments – No more time wasted while waiting outside a doctor’s office. With us, appointments begin right when they’re supposed to, even if they’re made the same day.
- Guaranteed 30-minute consultation times – No more rushing or quickly dashed off prescriptions with no explanations. Our doctors take the time needed to give you information about your concerns, and are open to answering all your questions.
- 5-star ratings for our doctors – Because our doctors know how to explain things in a way patients can understand, we frequently get positive feedback from them.
If you feel that you have a health concern on your pregnancy, it’s always best to seek medical advice from a health care professional. Get the treatment you need and book an online consultation today.
