What is Spotting in Pregnancy?

Spotting in pregnancy is a common occurrence. It is when you see light bleeding or discharge from your vagina. Spotting is often pink or light brown in color, and it can be either constant or intermittent. It can happen at any stage of your pregnancy, but it is more common in the early stages.

What are the causes of bleeding in early pregnancy?

There are a number of causes for bleeding in early pregnancy. Infections that trigger the formation of antibodies and cause irritation to the vagina or cervixes most commonly cause spotting. Infections may also lead to a discharge that is tinged with blood. Other causes of spotting in early pregnancy include:

1. Implantation bleeding- This is when the fertilized egg implants in the uterine wall. It is a common cause of spotting in early pregnancy. However, this does not necessarily reduce your chances getting pregnant later on as long as there has been no intercourse after seeing the spotting.
2. Miscarriage- Up to 25% of pregnancies end in miscarriage, and most of these occur in the first 12 weeks. Miscarriages can cause bleeding and cramping. If you suffer from frequent miscarriages do visit us for second trimester abortion services so that we can help you get rid of the pregnancy.
3. Preeclampsia- This is a condition that develops in about 5% of pregnancies and can cause excessive leaking from the kidneys, vomiting, headaches etc.. Some people don’t even realize they have preeclampsia until they start spotting.
4. Ectopic pregnancy- This is a pregnancy that implants outside the uterus, often in the fallopian tubes. It can cause spotting as well as severe pain.

Causes of bleeding in later pregnancy

In later pregnancy, the most common cause of bleeding is placental abruption. This is when the placenta starts to separate from the uterine wall before delivery. Other causes of bleeding in later pregnancy include:

1. Placental implantation- This is when the placenta attaches to the uterine wall. It is a common cause of bleeding in the later stages of pregnancy.
2. Infection- A urinary tract infection, bacterial vaginosis, or group B strep can all lead to inflammation inside or outside your womb leading up symptoms such as excessive pain during normal activities,vaginal discharge, fever, or spotting.
3. Preterm labor- About 1 in 10 pregnant women go into preterm labor. This can cause spotting as well as contractions, back pain, and abdominal cramping.
4. Miscarriage- Unfortunately, miscarriage is still a common occurrence in the later stages of pregnancy. Up to 25% of pregnancies end in miscarriage, and most of these occur in the first 12 weeks.

Vaginal infections

While any kind of bleeding during pregnancy should be taken seriously, vaginal infections are one of the more common causes. Women between age 16-35 years old normally get genital infection once every 6 weeks while many others women get sick multiple times throughout their lives. Most of these infections are mild and can be cleared up quickly with antibiotics.

Cervical changes

If you experience any type of vaginal discharge, pain during intercourse, or bleeding during your period, it is best to consult with your health care provider. Many changes that occur during pregnancy, such as an increase in estrogen levels, can cause these symptoms.

What to do if you experience bleeding in later pregnancy?

If you are experiencing any type of bleeding during your pregnancy, it is important to contact your doctor or midwife right away; there’s nothing scary about small amounts blood loss until suddenly things feel worse than ever! Even if the bleeding does turn out to be nothing, it is always better to be safe than sorry.  Here are some easy steps you can take:

• Head straight to your nearest emergency department.
• If you can, try to collect a sample of the blood for testing. For example with lightening colored blood spots – they usually mean very little problems ahead – whereas dark red/brownish blood often indicates a more serious issue.
• If you are feeling lightheaded, dizzy or faint – sit down and drink plenty of fluids. Putting aside concerns over germs; standing up may have caused significant amounts of internal/external hemorrage resulting in lightheadedness. You need fluids more now than ever before in this case!
• Rest as much as possible – this goes for both you and your partner. Do not try to do anything active. If your partner is doing most of the work in your home, this is a time to let them rest and take care themselves too!!
• Wear a pad and keep track of how much blood you are losing. This can help you and your health care provider gauge how serious the situation might be.
• Call a friend or family member – you are not alone in this.

If you experience any of these symptoms, see your health care provider as soon as possible.