Bleeding during pregnancy
Bleeding during pregnancy often immediately causes worry, especially if it is bright red or comes unexpectedly in between. Yet it certainly does not always mean that something is wrong. In many cases bleeding is harmless, especially in the first weeks. But there are also situations in which it is good to contact a midwife. On this page you can read all about the possible causes of bleeding, when to call in medical help and how you can deal with it yourself.
Why you may have bleeding during pregnancy
A lot changes in your body during pregnancy. Your womb gets ready to let a baby grow and your hormone balance changes considerably. As a result, your blood vessels can be more sensitive, especially around the cervix. A little bleeding, for example after sex or after an internal scan, is therefore common. Especially in the first trimester this happens regularly.
But bleeding can also occur later in pregnancy. That doesn’t immediately have to mean something serious, but it is important to pay close attention to what the blood looks like and whether you have other complaints, such as abdominal pain or cramps.
Bright red bleeding: what does it mean?
Bright red bleeding usually indicates ‘fresh’ blood. This kind of bleeding occurs, for example, when a small tear develops in a blood vessel of the cervix. That can happen after sex, after a physical examination or without a clear cause. As long as it is a few drops and you have no other complaints, there is often no reason for immediate panic.
However, if the bleeding comes in larger amounts, is accompanied by cramps or you also lose tissue? Then it is sensible to contact your midwife or doctor immediately. Especially with bleeding after 12 weeks or if you are further along in your pregnancy, a medical assessment is important.
Bleeding in between: how do you recognise it?
Bleeding in between means that you lose blood outside your expected period. During pregnancy you shouldn’t have a period at all, of course, so any moment you notice you are losing blood, however little, counts as bleeding in between. This can be a few pink or brown spots on your underwear, or bright blood when you wipe.
Pay close attention to the pattern of the bleeding. Is it a one-off? Does it come back more often? Is it accompanied by other complaints such as nausea, dizziness or abdominal pain? Keep track of these signals and discuss them with your midwife. That way you get targeted support that suits your situation.
Bleeding in the first trimester
In the first twelve weeks of pregnancy, bleeding is more common. The implantation of the embryo can, for example, cause light bleeding. A changed hormone balance and the increased blood flow in your womb can also cause light bleeding.
In this period the risk of miscarriage is statistically the greatest, but the majority of pregnancies with light bleeding end perfectly well. Pay attention to your body, get in touch if in doubt and trust your feelings.
Bleeding after the first trimester
After the first trimester, bleeding is less common, so it is more important to take it seriously. Possible causes are:
- A low-lying placenta (placenta praevia)
- An inflammation or infection
- Early contractions or threatened premature birth
- Discharge mixed with bloody mucus
Bleeding in the third trimester, however small, always deserves attention. Contact your midwife immediately or, in an emergency, call Pregnanta’s emergency number: 06-520 476 10. This number is available day and night.
When should you call in medical help?
Are you unsure whether your bleeding is harmless? Then the rule is: always get in touch. Call your midwife or the emergency number immediately if you have:
- Bright red bleeding that keeps going
- Bleeding accompanied by abdominal pain or cramps
- Loss of clots or tissue
- Dizziness or fainting
- Bleeding after 20 weeks of pregnancy
Even if you only bleed briefly, it is sensible to report it. You never need to feel bad about that. By getting in touch in time, you prevent unnecessary stress or complications.
What you can do yourself if you have bleeding
With light bleeding and no other complaints, there are also a few things you can do yourself:
- Take a bit more rest for a while
- Avoid strenuous activities or sexual intercourse
- Note down how much bleeding you have and when
- Pay attention to other signals, such as abdominal pain or nausea
Remember that your body works hard during pregnancy. Sometimes a warning in the form of bleeding is a sign to take things a bit easier. That doesn’t immediately mean something is wrong, but it is a moment to listen carefully to yourself.
Don’t keep your worries to yourself
Being pregnant is a special time. But it also brings uncertainties. Especially when you experience bleeding, it is logical that you worry. Fortunately, you are not alone. At Pregnanta you get support that goes beyond medical care alone. There is room for your questions, doubts and emotions.
Would you like to discuss your bleeding, or are you unsure whether to get in touch? Feel free to call. Even when in doubt, your midwife is there for you. Contact us at verloskundigen@pregnanta.nl or call 020-775 99 27 (weekdays between 08:30 and 16:00). Together we will look at what is needed.