Bleeding of any kind during pregnancy is always frightening, though it is not always detrimental, and in fact can be quite common during early pregnancy. The reasons for bleeding can vary, but most of the time early pregnancy bleeding is caused by the egg attempting to settle into the uterus. This occurrence is known as implantation bleeding. While this is the number one cause of bleeding during the first trimester, there are other possible causes as well.
Sometimes increased blood flow to the cervix, a normal part of any pregnancy, can cause bleeding. Small spots of blood may appear in this case. However, if excessive amounts of blood begin to flow, it is important to contact your doctor right away. Occasionally, early pregnancy bleeding can mean that there is a problem with the fetus.
If bleeding is connected with fever, cramping, or chills, it could be a sign of a miscarriage. The only way to determine what is happening to a fetus, in this case, is to contact a medical professional. Through a pelvic exam, a doctor or midwife will be able to tell the condition of the fetus.
While early pregnancy bleeding is the most common type of bleeding, blood can show up during the second and third trimesters as well. If bleeding occurs during the second or third trimester, it could be a sign of premature labor. While miscarriages and stillbirths are a possibility during the second and third trimester, they are not likely.
In addition to all of the causes listed above, early pregnancy bleeding can be a result of intercourse. If the cervix becomes damaged during intercourse, then bleeding will occur. Also, any sexually transmitted diseases can cause bleeding. In any case, if you are experiencing bleeding of any kind, it is best to contact a medical professional.
More often than not, early pregnancy bleeding is nothing to be worried about. Still, it never hurts to contact a medical expert in order to gain a professional opinion. Bleeding may start out light, but it may become worse if the problem is not addressed. If you cannot get to your own doctor right away, visit the emergency room at a hospital near you.
The most important thing to remember during any bleeding situation is to remain calm. Stress and anxiety may have more of an impact on an unborn child than light bleeding. Thanks to modern medical technology, bleeding can usually be contained and stopped without any damage to a fetus.